Tinubu Charges New Envoys to Drive Investment

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has charged newly appointed ambassadors and High Commissioners to focus on attracting foreign investment, strengthening strategic partnerships and improving the country’s position in global affairs.

Tinubu had forwarded the names of 32 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation on November 29, 2025.

Speaking on Monday at the opening of an induction course for the diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, Tinubu said their appointments reflected the administration’s confidence in their ability to promote Nigeria’s interests abroad.

According to a statement by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the president said the global system was changing rapidly due to geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, climate concerns and increasing security threats.

Represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, Tinubu said these developments had made diplomacy more important than ever. He added that Nigeria must be ready to respond to the changing global environment by prioritising the protection and promotion of national interests.

“The international system is evolving rapidly. We must be prepared to meet these challenges by focusing on how best to protect and promote Nigeria’s national interest,” the president said.

Tinubu urged the envoys to adopt a modern, results-driven diplomatic style that blends traditional diplomacy with digital engagement, public diplomacy, and strategic communication.

He also called on them to effectively project Nigeria’s image abroad while showcasing the achievements of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

The president asked the diplomats to be proactive and innovative in building partnerships, expanding trade ties and attracting foreign direct investment, technology and economic opportunities to Nigeria.

Tinubu further announced a reordering of Nigeria’s foreign policy framework known as the 4D doctrine. According to him, the change places Nigerians at the centre of foreign policy and is intended to deliver maximum benefits to citizens.

“This re-ordering has put the Nigerian people at the centre of our foreign policy agenda and is aimed at harnessing outcomes for their maximum benefit,” he said.

The president stressed the importance of professionalism, patriotism and integrity, noting that ambassadors serve not only as government representatives but also as custodians of Nigeria’s image overseas.

Tinubu also urged all missions to embrace accountability, prudent management of resources and measurable goals that support economic growth and national development.

He encouraged the envoys to take full advantage of the induction programme, saying it was designed to equip them for effective service in a fast-changing world.

The president also commended the National Assembly for swiftly confirming the nominees and urged the diplomats to justify the confidence placed in them.

The list of selected ambassadors included former presidential aide Reno Omokri, former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman Mahmood Yakubu, and former aviation minister Femi Fani-Kayode.

On December 18, 2025, the Senate confirmed 64 nominees, including 34 career ambassadors and 30 non-career envoys.