President Bola Tinubu has taken significant steps to strengthen Nigeria's diplomatic corps by nominating Reno Omokri and 31 other individuals for ambassadorial positions. The announcement came on Saturday, November 30, through an official statement from Bayo Onanuga, the president's special adviser on information and strategy.
Omokri's Heartfelt Response to Appointment
Reno Omokri, former presidential aide and prominent social commentator, broke his silence on Sunday, November 30, expressing profound gratitude for the nomination. In a detailed post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Omokri described President Tinubu as "the right man, at the right time, for the right job" and called for nationwide support for the administration.
"I thank God Almighty for this nomination and look forward to serving my fatherland and humanity," Omokri wrote. He particularly praised President Tinubu's leadership qualities, stating that the president has demonstrated Christlikeness through forgiveness and patriotism.
Comprehensive List of Nominees and Senate Process
The ambassadorial nominations represent a crucial move by the Tinubu administration to address Nigeria's diplomatic gaps. President Tinubu submitted two separate letters to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, requesting expeditious confirmation of:
- 15 career ambassador nominees
- 17 non-career ambassador nominees
Among the notable names included in the list is Femi Fani-Kayode, former Aviation Minister, whose appointment adds to the political significance of these nominations. This second batch follows an initial submission of three names sent to the Senate days earlier.
Broader Implications for Nigeria's Foreign Relations
The timing of these appointments is particularly crucial as Nigeria faces significant diplomatic challenges with the United States administration under Donald Trump. The threats from Washington have created international dimensions to Nigeria's longstanding security concerns, highlighting the urgent need for experienced diplomatic representation abroad.
For nearly two years, Nigeria has operated with key ambassadorial positions vacant, limiting the country's ability to effectively represent its interests internationally. The hollowing out of the diplomatic service shortly after President Tinubu took office in May 2023 has been cited as a contributing factor to the current diplomatic strains.
Omokri's nomination comes at a pivotal moment when Nigeria requires skilled diplomats to navigate complex international relationships and protect national interests on the global stage.
Personal Acknowledgments and Political Reconciliation
In his response, Omokri extended gratitude beyond the presidential appointment, acknowledging several key figures who have influenced his journey. He specifically thanked:
- His parents, Esijolomi and Omerewumi, for their foundational guidance
- National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, whom he described as embodying "all the goodness on Earth"
- His wife, Hana, for her unwavering support during challenging political periods
Omokri's statement notably highlighted the political reconciliation between himself and the Tinubu administration, referencing the "three years that enemies of the President made me their foe because of my unalloyed support for the President." This suggests a significant political evolution and healing of previous rifts within Nigerian political circles.
The ambassadorial nominations now await Senate confirmation, which will determine whether these individuals will represent Nigeria's interests in various international postings. The outcome of these confirmations could significantly impact Nigeria's ability to rebuild its diplomatic presence and address pressing international concerns.
