EXCLUSIVE: Why ambassadorial list is being rejigged

By Innocent Raphael –

The long-awaited list of ambassadors to head Nigeria’s foreign missions is expected to be released in the coming weeks, following an ongoing review by the federal government.

Authoritative sources informed WESTERN POST that the list is currently being revised to produce a final, updated version. The review, the sources explained, became necessary due to developments affecting several nominees initially proposed.

Findings revealed that some of the shortlisted career diplomats have either passed away, retired from the civil service, or assumed other official responsibilities since the first compilation. Specifically, three career diplomats previously on the list were reported dead, while no fewer than twelve others have retired.

A senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the review is intended to ensure that the final list reflects only qualified and active officers, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to professionalism and merit in Nigeria’s diplomatic service.

The initial ambassadorial list was prepared earlier this year 2025, as part of President Tinubu’s initiative to reform and reposition Nigeria’s foreign missions for greater efficiency and global engagement. However, bureaucratic delays and personnel changes within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reportedly slowed down the process.

The current review, according to government insiders, follows months of internal consultations and verifications to ensure that the final nominations align with the administration’s foreign policy priorities—particularly in promoting trade, investment, and international cooperation.

Nigeria operates over 100 diplomatic missions worldwide, and each ambassadorial appointment plays a vital role in advancing the country’s strategic interests abroad.

Once finalized, the updated list will be transmitted to the Presidency for approval and subsequently forwarded to the Senate for screening and confirmation.