Tinubu Expands Ambassadorial List to 65 Nominees Amid Growing Debate

West Africa WeeklyDecember 5, 20252 Mins read4

President Bola Tinubu has sent a new, expanded ambassadorial list to the Senate, broadening the scope of his diplomatic appointments and signalling another major reshuffle in Nigeria’s foreign representation. The latest list contains 65 names, comprising 34 career diplomats and 31 non-career nominees. It was read on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary.

This latest submission follows earlier batches that had already sparked public debate, especially around the growing number of political figures on the roster. The new list continues that pattern. Among those nominated are Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, the former Chief of Naval Staff and former Sole Administrator of Rivers State; Chioma Ohakim, who previously served as First Lady of Imo State; Ita Enang, a former senator and presidential aide; and Abdulrahman Dambazau, a retired Chief of Army Staff and former Interior Minister.

Their inclusion illustrates the administration’s preference for blending experienced career diplomats with politically connected nominees and retired security chiefs. While some see this as a strategic balance designed to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic influence, others argue that the heavy presence of political appointees risks weakening the foreign service’s professional core.

The new list also arrives at a time when several Nigerian embassies have been understaffed or without substantive heads. Many posts have remained vacant since the recall of all ambassadors shortly after Tinubu assumed office. Against that backdrop, the presidency is presenting this move as an effort to fill critical positions and restore full diplomatic activity in regions where Nigeria has significant political, economic, or security interests.

The Senate has referred the nominations to its Committee on Foreign Affairs, directing it to complete the screenings within one week. Once the committee submits its report, the Senate will decide whether to confirm the nominees and enable the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to begin assigning postings.

Beyond the administrative process, the nominations have revived a broader national conversation about the purpose and direction of Nigerian diplomacy. Supporters of the new list argue that the presence of former service chiefs and seasoned political actors could help Nigeria project firmer authority in global forums and strengthen security-related cooperation with other nations. Critics counter that ambassadorial appointments should prioritise diplomatic expertise and long-term service within the foreign ministry, rather than serving as rewards for political allies or individuals rotating out of government roles.

Nigeria’s diplomatic appointments carry weight not only because of the country’s regional leadership role, but also because foreign missions are central to attracting investment, supporting citizens abroad, and shaping Nigeria’s global reputation. As the Senate begins its screening, attention will focus on whether the nominees demonstrate the competence and vision required to represent the country effectively.

The coming weeks will show how the Senate balances political loyalty, professional merit, and national interest in what is emerging as one of the most consequential diplomatic reshuffles of the Tinubu administration.