The Federal Government has urged newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to project a positive image of Nigeria abroad while navigating limited resources and complex global realities.
Speaking at the opening session of the induction course for career and non-career ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja on Monday, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, emphasised the critical role of diplomats in shaping Nigeria’s international perception and advancing national interests.
She noted that while Nigeria is bedevilled by numerous challenges, including insecurity, resource mobilisation and infrastructure deficits, ambassadors must not conceal these realities but rather draw constructive international attention to them.
She said, “Locally, our nation faces genuine challenges of insecurity, resource mobilisation, and infrastructure development. Your 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 unparalleled and consistent.”
Highlighting operational challenges, particularly funding constraints, the minister called for prudence and innovation in the discharge of duties.
“One challenge you will inevitably encounter at post is funding. You will find that, whereas your task is vast, the resources placed at your disposal are scarce. A lean budget, however, is not a license for failure; it is a call for prudence and ingenuity. We therefore look forward to your cooperation to ensure improvement on all fronts, because Nigeria has entrusted you with its sovereignty, and sovereignty, even when poorly funded, must be exercised with excellence,” she stated.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that the induction marks the beginning of a critical national assignment, stressing that the envoys would serve as the face, voice and strategic representatives of Nigeria in their respective countries of accreditation.
She charged them to vigorously promote Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives anchored on democracy, development, demography and diaspora, while advancing economic diplomacy through investment promotion, trade facilitation and tourism development.
“The expectations placed upon you are both significant and far-reaching. You are expected to vigorously promote Nigeria’s national interests in line with the foreign policy thrust of the current administration, which is anchored in the 4Ds—Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora.
“This also includes advancing economic diplomacy, attracting foreign direct investment, facilitating trade, promoting tourism, and supporting Nigeria’s drive for economic diversification and sustainable development. You must position Nigeria as a credible and attractive partner for investment and collaboration,” she said
The minister also underscored the importance of protecting the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and accountability.
She stressed that Nigeria is entrusting the ambassadors-designate with its sovereignty—a sacred duty to speak, negotiate and represent over 230 million Nigerians with honour, dignity and excellence.
“In addition, you are expected to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, deepen strategic partnerships, and enhance Nigeria’s standing within the international community. You must engage constructively with your host governments, international organisations, and other stakeholders in a manner that promotes peace, security and shared prosperity. Your role in projecting a positive and accurate image of Nigeria cannot be overstated, particularly in a rapidly evolving global environment where perception often shapes reality.
“You must also actively protect the welfare and rights of Nigerians in the diaspora. Our citizens abroad must feel the presence, responsiveness and protection of their government through your missions. Their safety, dignity and prosperity must remain a top priority at all times. Prompt consular services, effective crisis response, and continuous engagement with Nigerian communities are essential elements of your responsibilities,” she said.
She further reminded the envoys that diplomatic immunity does not excuse misconduct, urging them to uphold transparency, discipline and adherence to established procedures in managing public resources.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that the global geopolitical environment remains fluid, with shifting alliances and emerging challenges, requiring diplomats to remain proactive, innovative and result-oriented in delivering measurable outcomes for Nigeria.
The induction programme, she noted, will expose participants to key frameworks guiding diplomacy, including international conventions, regional protocols and Nigeria’s engagements on global platforms.
She expressed confidence that the ambassadors and high commissioners-designate would discharge their responsibilities with dedication, excellence and patriotism, while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and global standing.
She charged the envoys to ensure their engagements firmly align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Tinubu, noting that the administration is committed to repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth, strengthening national security, enhancing economic resilience and restoring confidence in governance.
By: Deborah Musa
