In a significant move amidst ongoing delays in appointing ambassadors, the Federal Government of Nigeria allocated approximately N14 billion to 16 foreign missions in July 2024. This revelation highlights the pressing need for effective diplomatic representation as the country maintains a global presence through its 109 missions, which include 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates.
On September 2, 2023, President Bola Tinubu initiated changes by recalling all career and non-career ambassadors from diplomatic positions worldwide. The recalled ambassadors, totaling 83—41 non-career and 42 career—were instructed to return by October 31, as they were initially appointed in July 2020 by the former administration.
The protracted absence of appointed ambassadors has sparked widespread public concern regarding Nigeria’s diplomatic effectiveness. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, attributed the hold-up to financial and economic hurdles facing the government, stating that the necessary funding for operational effectiveness had not been secured.
During a ministerial briefing in Abuja, Tuggar emphasized the government’s commitment to shifting focus toward production subsidies instead of consumption. However, he expressed challenges arising from fluctuating economic reforms and external factors affecting funding stability.
Despite these challenges, recent reports indicate that the Nigerian government disbursed N13.7 billion for personnel costs across 16 foreign missions. Notable missions receiving funds include those in The Hague, Tokyo, Vienna, Washington, Berlin, Brasilia, Brussels, Paris, Beijing, Geneva, Jeddah, London, Madrid, Moscow, New York, and Ottawa.
The distribution of funds occurred through the FGN Treasury on July 19 and July 29, 2024, with varying amounts allocated to each mission. Significant allocations included N1.5 billion to New York and over N1.2 billion to London.
A former ambassador remarked that while the lack of funds has impeded the timely appointment of ambassadors, mission heads at the consulate level continue to operate. He noted that the fluctuating value of the naira significantly impacts the funding allocated to overseas missions, complicating financial planning and execution.
