The Federal Government has charged ambassadors-designate to secure strategic partnerships with their host countries and project an accurate image of Nigeria abroad.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, gave the charge on Monday in Abuja at the opening of an induction programme for newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners.
The induction, which also includes their spouses, is designed to prepare the envoys for their diplomatic responsibilities and deepen their understanding of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, diplomatic practice, mission administration, and consular duties.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the minister urged the envoys to promote Nigeria’s national interests while presenting a balanced narrative of the country’s realities.
She said while Nigeria faces challenges such as insecurity, resource mobilisation, and infrastructure deficits, envoys must not conceal these issues but rather use them to attract global support and partnerships.
“Our task is not to hide these realities but to secure international attention and partnership by amplifying the true picture that, despite these obstacles, this government’s commitment to resolving them remains consistent,” she said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further tasked the diplomats to advance economic diplomacy by attracting foreign direct investment, promoting trade and tourism, and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
She also emphasised the importance of consular responsibilities, stressing that Nigerians in the diaspora must feel the presence and protection of their government through responsive missions abroad.
She called for professionalism, discipline, integrity, prudence, and accountability in managing Nigeria’s missions, warning that diplomatic privileges must not be abused.
“As the country’s representatives abroad, you carry the weight of our nation’s image, interests, and aspirations. Your actions will shape global perceptions of Nigeria,” she added.
In his keynote address, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described the appointments as a sacred national duty and urged the envoys to ensure their assignments yield tangible benefits for Nigerians.
He said Nigeria’s foreign policy has been repositioned to prioritise citizens, adding that diplomats must strengthen national development, enhance the country’s global standing, and advance strategic interests.
Also speaking, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Akume, directed the envoys to prioritise attracting foreign investment and strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
He urged them to adopt modern diplomatic strategies, including digital engagement, while promoting Nigeria’s economic opportunities.
The President also unveiled a revised foreign policy framework known as the 4D Doctrine—Demography, Development, Diaspora, and Democracy—placing citizens at the centre of diplomatic efforts.
The induction programme will continue with technical sessions on diplomatic practice, mission management, protocol, consular affairs, economic diplomacy, and security coordination.
