by Ola Williams Abuja-
The Nigerian government has begun screening candidates for ambassadorial appointments, with prominent figures such as former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode and ex-Lagos Deputy Governor Femi Pedro among those currently undergoing vetting.
The process, which spans Nigeria’s 109 diplomatic missions—including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates—is being carried out in a decentralized manner, sources say. Nominees are being directed to the Department of State Services (DSS) offices nearest to them for security clearance.
A senior government official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that the vetting is well underway. “The process is thorough. Candidates are submitting detailed academic and professional records. Only those who successfully complete DSS screening will be shortlisted for final appointment,” the official said.
According to him, the final list of appointees is expected to be released by the end of April.
This development follows President Bola Tinubu’s broader overhaul of Nigeria’s foreign policy strategy, anchored on the “4Ds”—Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora. In a bold move last September, Tinubu recalled 83 ambassadors as part of efforts to realign Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with its new global vision.
Presidency sources also acknowledged that the delay in naming new diplomats was tied to financial issues. “We are facing significant fiscal challenges, from nearly $1 billion in arrears owed to foreign service personnel, to urgent embassy repairs and vehicle replacements,” one source explained.
Despite these hurdles, officials remain optimistic. “The nomination process is moving steadily. This is a critical step in reestablishing Nigeria’s global diplomatic footprint,” the official added.
The screenings mark a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s attempt to revitalize its foreign service and project a more strategic presence on the international stage.
