Enikanolaiye Urges Nigeria’s Envoys To West Africa To Prioritise Regional Security, Economic Integration
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The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, has charged Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate to West African countries to place regional security, economic integration and citizens’ welfare at the centre of their diplomatic engagements.
Speaking at a Strategic Retreat for Nigeria’s Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate to West African countries held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, Enikanolaiye said Nigeria’s foreign policy must remain firmly anchored on the protection of national interests, with the welfare and security of citizens as top priorities.
He noted in his speech made available to journalists in Abuja that developments within the West African sub-region have direct implications for Nigeria’s socio-economic and political stability, making the region a critical focus of the country’s diplomatic efforts.
The minister expressed appreciation to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, for supporting the hosting of the retreat in Uyo, describing the city as peaceful, hospitable and well-equipped with world-class infrastructure.
According to him, the retreat builds on an earlier induction programme held in Abuja for the envoys and is intended to deepen their understanding of Nigeria’s strategic role in West Africa, particularly in promoting peace, security, democracy and economic development.
Enikanolaiye reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional leadership, stressing that while perceptions may suggest a decline in the country’s influence, its leadership role is evolving in response to changing regional and global dynamics.
He cited the maiden West Africa Economic Summit hosted by Nigeria in 2025 as evidence of the country’s continued leadership through innovative ideas and regional cooperation.
The minister highlighted several challenges confronting the region, including terrorism, unconstitutional changes of government, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, drug and human trafficking, banditry, and other transnational crimes.
He also pointed to the withdrawal of some member states from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the growing influence of external powers in the region as developments requiring careful diplomatic management.
“Our foreign policy direction is clear,” he said, explaining that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is guided by the 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine — Demography, Development, Democracy and Diaspora.
The minister urged the envoys to leverage frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area and the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme to boost trade, attract investments and remove barriers hindering Nigerian businesses across the region.
He further tasked them with strengthening democratic institutions, promoting the rule of law and repositioning Nigeria as a mediator, peacemaker and stabilising force in West Africa.
On the welfare of Nigerians abroad, Enikanolaiye directed the diplomats to maintain strong relationships with Nigerian communities in their host countries and ensure embassies remain responsive and accessible to citizens in distress.
He encouraged the ambassadors to embrace digital diplomacy as a tool for engaging Nigerians abroad and expanding the country’s diplomatic reach.
The minister expressed confidence that the retreat would better equip the envoys to advance President Tinubu’s vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated West Africa while safeguarding Nigeria’s national interests.
