The Federal Government has charged the newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to promote a positive image of Nigeria on the global stage, even as they contend with limited resources and complex international dynamics.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the call on Monday in Abuja during the opening session of an induction programme for career and non-career ambassadors and high commissioners-designate.
She said diplomats play a central role in shaping how Nigeria is perceived internationally and in advancing the country’s interests abroad.
According to her, although Nigeria continued to grapple with challenges such as insecurity, resource constraints and infrastructure gaps, envoys must not conceal these issues but instead use them to attract constructive global attention and partnerships.
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.”
Addressing operational concerns, particularly funding limitations, Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the diplomats to adopt creativity and discipline in managing their responsibilities.
“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.
She explained that the induction programme signals the beginning of a significant national assignment, with the envoys expected to serve as Nigeria’s representatives, voice and image in their countries of accreditation.
The minister tasked them with actively promoting Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, which are anchored on the 4Ds, Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, while also driving economic diplomacy through investment promotion, trade expansion 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.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further emphasised the need to safeguard Nigerians in the diaspora, strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, and uphold professionalism, accountability and integrity in diplomatic engagements.
She noted that Nigeria was entrusting the ambassadors-designate with the responsibility of representing over 230 million citizens, a duty she described as one requiring 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 also reminded the envoys that diplomatic immunity does not permit misconduct, stressing the importance of transparency, discipline and strict adherence to financial and administrative procedures.
According to her, the current global geopolitical climate is fluid, with shifting alliances and emerging challenges, making it necessary for diplomats to remain proactive, innovative and focused on delivering tangible results for the country.
She added that the induction programme is designed to expose participants to key diplomatic frameworks, including international conventions, regional agreements and Nigeria’s multilateral engagements.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed confidence that the ambassadors and high commissioners-designate would discharge their duties with dedication, professionalism and patriotism, while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and global reputation.
She also urged them to align their activities with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, noting that the administration remains committed to strengthening national security, driving economic growth, improving governance and repositioning Nigeria for sustainable development.
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