Abuja, Dec. 5, 2025 — The Nigerian Senate is set to begin screening 65 ambassadorial nominees submitted by President Bola Tinubu, marking one of the most extensive diplomatic overhauls in recent years.
The nominees include a mix of career diplomats and political appointees, reflecting Tinubu’s strategy to balance professional expertise with political loyalty in Nigeria’s foreign service.
Sources within the Senate suggest that the screening could be contentious, as lawmakers are expected to scrutinise nominees over issues ranging from past controversies to regional balance and foreign policy priorities.
Among the nominees are:
Former governors and political heavyweights.
Retired senior diplomats.
Technocrats with international experience.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed receipt of the list, noting that the screening will be conducted by the Committee on Foreign Affairs before plenary confirmation.
Analysts say the overhaul underscores Tinubu’s bid to reposition Nigeria’s diplomacy, nearly two years after he recalled all ambassadors in September 2023. The move is seen as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s global standing and align foreign policy with his administration’s economic and security agenda.
However, critics warn that the inclusion of several non-career nominees could spark debate over merit, competence, and political patronage.
Sources:
