The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commenced an induction programme for newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate, charged them to prioritise result-oriented diplomacy in the discharge of their duties.
The induction ceremony, which began on Monday in Abuja, is aimed at equipping the envoys with the requisite knowledge of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, diplomatic protocols, mission administration, and consular responsibilities ahead of their postings.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, congratulated the envoys on their appointments, noting that their selection reflected the confidence reposed in them by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She described them as the face and voice of Nigeria in their respective countries of accreditation, stressing that their conduct would shape global perceptions of the country.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the envoys to advance Nigeria’s national interests in line with the administration’s foreign policy thrust anchored on Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora. She emphasised the need to promote economic diplomacy by attracting foreign direct investment, boosting trade and tourism, and supporting the country’s economic diversification drive.
She also underscored the importance of efficient consular services, stating that Nigerians in the diaspora must feel the presence and protection of their government through missions abroad. According to her, responsiveness, crisis management, and sustained engagement with Nigerian communities should remain central to diplomatic activities.
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described the appointments as a sacred national responsibility. He said Nigeria’s foreign policy has been repositioned to prioritise citizens’ welfare and tangible national benefits.
Akume charged the envoys to ensure their assignments translate into measurable gains for Nigerians, enhance national development, and strengthen the country’s global standing. He also urged them to uphold professionalism, patriotism, and respect for the laws and cultures of their host countries.
Representatives of the National Assembly, in goodwill messages, assured the envoys of continued legislative support. They, however, emphasised the need for accountability, financial prudence, and strict adherence to established regulations in the management of Nigerian missions abroad.
The induction programme will continue with technical sessions covering diplomatic practice, protocol, consular affairs, multilateral engagement, economic diplomacy, and security coordination.
The ceremony, according to the Ministry, underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic service and position its envoys to deliver purposeful and effective representation abroad.
