ABUJA—The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned President Bola Tinubu for his failure to appoint ambassadors to Nigeria’s overseas missions, asserting that this ongoing neglect is tarnishing the nation’s global image and undermining its international relations.
In a statement issued by the party’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC expressed its alarm over the fact that Nigeria has been without ambassadors for over two years.
Describing the situation as ’embarrassing’, the party warned that it could prompt other nations to downgrade their diplomatic ties with Nigeria.
“Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recalled all 109 ambassadors in 2023, none have been replaced, leaving Nigeria without adequate representation at crucial global forums where significant decisions affecting our country are made,” the statement noted.
The ADC highlighted that the absence of ambassadors has exacerbated visa and consular challenges, particularly with countries like the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
The party argued that lower-ranking diplomats or chargé d’affaires lack the authority and recognition necessary to effectively advocate for Nigeria’s interests.
“This government’s procrastination in appointing ambassadors has severely impacted our relations with nations hosting Nigerian missions. If this continues, other countries may also downgrade their representation in Nigeria,” Abdullahi cautioned.
The ADC further accused the Tinubu administration of lacking urgency and clarity on this matter, emphasising that Nigeria is being excluded from vital discussions on economic cooperation, trade, and international partnerships.
The party remarked: “While other nations are busy forging alliances, signing trade agreements, and securing investment deals, Nigeria is absent from these negotiations due to the lack of high-level diplomats abroad.”
Additionally, the ADC critiqued the government’s response to a recent diplomatic incident involving a U.S. request for Nigeria to accept deported Venezuelans, labelling the remarks made by the foreign affairs minister during a live broadcast as careless and inappropriate.
“While we support the government’s position on this issue, we are astonished that such a sensitive matter was aired on prime-time television. Communications with a key ally like the United States should be conducted with greater caution and diplomacy,” the party stated.
It urged President Tinubu to swiftly appoint ambassadors to alleviate this growing embarrassment and prevent further damage to Nigeria’s foreign policy.
“The President must act immediately to appoint ambassadors to safeguard Nigeria’s interests and reputation abroad,” the party warned.
