Nigeria moves to stabilise diplomatic missions amid funding shortfalls
By Kunle Sanni –
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged financial and operational challenges affecting Nigeria’s embassies and consulates abroad, including delayed salary payments, unsettled bills, and reduced foreign service allowances.
In a statement on Monday, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said the funding gaps stem from years of budgetary shortfalls and the impact of recent foreign exchange reforms. He noted that Nigeria’s diplomatic posts are not immune to the broader economic challenges at home.
“The welfare of staff and their families abroad is of paramount importance to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read. “The government is taking decisive steps to address these financial issues.”
The ministry confirmed that special intervention funds have been released to missions to clear outstanding obligations. A committee has verified debts and authorised payments, with over 80% of available funds already disbursed to cover salaries of locally recruited staff, payments to service providers, and arrears for officers.
It further disclosed that the government has approved refunds to missions for shortfalls caused by foreign exchange differentials, with the first tranche already remitted and the second semester allocations now approved. The ministry is working with the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria to ensure prompt release of personnel and overhead cost allocations beginning this week.
According to the ministry, these measures have begun to stabilise missions, while efforts are underway to develop a sustainable funding model to ensure long-term operational efficiency.
The statement praised Nigerian diplomats for their resilience and thanked host governments, service providers, and international partners for their understanding during the financial strain.
“These challenges are temporary and will be overcome through the concerted efforts of this administration,” the ministry assured, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to strong international diplomacy and the protection of citizens abroad.
