India, Other Countries Reject President Tinubu’s Envoys Over Tenure Policy
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Several countries have reportedly declined to approve some of the ambassadors recently nominated by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing concerns about the limited time left in the current administration.
Diplomatic sources disclosed that certain nations operate policies that discourage accepting ambassadors from governments with less than two years remaining in office. As a result, some of Nigeria’s newly nominated envoys are facing delays or possible rejection.
Among the affected postings is Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to India, Ambassador Muhammad Dahiru. Officials familiar with the matter say authorities in India have indicated reluctance to grant the required diplomatic approval for his appointment.
Under established diplomatic protocol, an ambassador cannot formally assume duty in a host country without agrément — a formal acceptance issued by the receiving government. Without this approval, nominated envoys are unable to begin their diplomatic assignments.
Presidency sources explained that the hesitancy from some countries is not directed at the individuals nominated but rather at the duration they would likely serve. With a relatively short period remaining before the end of the administration, host nations are reportedly wary of appointing ambassadors who could soon be replaced.
Another diplomatic official noted that foreign governments are also considering the possibility of political changes in Nigeria following the next presidential election. If a new administration takes office, it may recall or replace ambassadors appointed by the current government.
The development follows the recent approval of 65 ambassadors and high commissioners by the Nigerian government for deployment to various countries and international organisations. The list includes envoys assigned to major diplomatic missions in countries such as Germany, China, Mexico and United Nations.
However, diplomatic clearance for many of the nominees has been slow. Reports indicate that only a few countries, including the United Kingdom and France, have so far granted approval for Nigeria’s envoys.
Foreign service insiders also pointed to the delay in naming new ambassadors as part of the challenge. In 2023, Nigeria recalled ambassadors from more than 100 foreign missions, leaving several diplomatic positions vacant for an extended period before new nominations were eventually announced.
Despite the difficulties, officials in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remain hopeful that Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic relationships with some countries may help ease concerns and secure approval for the pending appointments.
Nigeria’s next presidential election is scheduled for January 2027, while President Tinubu’s current term will end in May of the same year. If diplomatic approvals continue to face delays, some of the nominated ambassadors could end up serving for less than a year.
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