Presidency Orders Final Vetting Amid Tense U.S. Relations and Global Visibility Concerns
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to announce a fresh list of ambassadors, signaling a major step toward restoring Nigeria’s diplomatic footprint nearly two years after the country recalled all its envoys.

According to Arise News, the appointments—covering several strategic and high-priority nations—may be unveiled as early as next week. Security agencies have been directed to complete vetting of nominees immediately, following a “final cleanup” of the list ordered by the President.

Presidency sources said the new lineup is designed to plug critical gaps in Nigeria’s global engagement and reposition the country’s foreign policy priorities amid mounting geopolitical challenges.

The expected announcement comes at a sensitive moment in Nigeria’s international relations, particularly following a diplomatic spat with the United States. The tension was triggered by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Nigeria is a “country of particular concern,” alleging organized persecution of Christians by terrorists and bandits.

The Nigerian government swiftly dismissed the allegation as “inaccurate and unfounded,” stressing that terrorist attacks in the country have no ethnic or religious motivation. Officials maintain that the claim “does not reflect realities on the ground,” emphasizing ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and promote unity.

Tinubu’s decision to fast-track ambassadorial appointments is seen as an attempt to restore Nigeria’s visibility and credibility on the global stage, following the mass recall of envoys from 109 foreign missions in 2023—including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates—as part of a comprehensive diplomatic review.

Analysts note that the absence of appointed ambassadors has weakened Nigeria’s influence in key international institutions and bilateral forums, at a time when global partnerships are increasingly critical for trade, investment, and security cooperation.

By reconstituting Nigeria’s diplomatic corps, the President is expected to project a renewed image of strategic engagement, aligning foreign policy with his administration’s “Renewed Hope” vision for global competitiveness and regional leadership.