By Favour Ulebor
The Federal Government has warned that Nigerians falsely parading themselves as ambassadors risk prosecution, declaring that the title is not for sale and can only be conferred by the President.
The warning comes as Nigeria prepares to deploy a new set of ambassadors to foreign missions following progress in diplomatic clearances from host countries.
Speaking at a press briefing with journalists on Friday in Abuja, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said more than 25 countries have approved Nigeria’s ambassador-designates.
He explained that the approvals, known in diplomatic practice as agrément, are required before envoys can be posted, as host countries must first assess and accept nominees.
Ebienfa disclosed that the ministry has concluded plans for a three-day induction programme scheduled for April 27 to 29, after which deployment will begin.
“We have received more than 25 agreements from countries where ambassador designates have been sent, and plans have been concluded for a three-day induction programme. Deployment will begin immediately after the exercise,” Ebienfa said.
He added that the induction will expose ambassadors and, where applicable, their spouses to diplomatic principles, expected conduct in host countries, and the priorities of the President.
While giving the update, the ministry raised concern over what it described as a disturbing rise in the illegal use of ambassadorial titles by individuals and groups.
Ebienfa said some organisations are offering fake ambassadorial appointments to Nigerians in exchange for huge sums of money, with promises of diplomatic privileges such as passports, special airport treatment, and immunity abroad.
He stressed that only the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces has the authority to appoint and accredit ambassadors, warning that any other claim amounts to impersonation.
According to him, some of those involved go as far as presenting themselves to foreign missions and international organisations as official representatives of Nigeria, creating embarrassment for the country.
He said, “Ambassadorial titles are not conferred with the payment of money or subscription to membership in non-governmental organisations.”
The spokesperson revealed that cases of fake diplomatic passports, identity cards, and cloned diplomatic vehicle number plates have already been recorded.
He added that the ministry is working with security agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, police, and intelligence bodies, to investigate and prosecute offenders.
Ebienfa also clarified that while individuals may serve as brand ambassadors for companies or organisations, such roles do not grant them the legal right to use the title “Ambassador” in an official capacity.
“You can be a brand ambassador for a company, but you cannot attach the title of ambassador to your name in a way that suggests diplomatic authority,” he said.
On broader diplomatic engagement, he acknowledged funding challenges affecting the ministry’s operations but expressed confidence that the Federal Government would provide the necessary support for effective foreign representation.
He said efforts are ongoing to improve collaboration with the National Assembly and address outstanding obligations related to past international engagements.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity, warning that any act capable of bringing the country into disrepute will not be tolerated.
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