Nigeria’s Foreign Engagements Remain Ongoing Despite 2023 Ambassadors Recall – Dr. Onoh

Former Southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Josef Onoh, has dismissed claims by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that the absence of Nigerian ambassadors abroad has caused a disastrous impact on the nation’s foreign relations.

He recently described the party’s remarks as misleading and alarmist, and Nigerians have been reacting.

According to him, the nation’s foreign engagements remain uninterrupted under the leadership of experienced foreign service officers acting as chargés d’affaires.

Onoh added that Tinubu’s 2023 recall of ambassadors was a bold and necessary decision to reevaluate and realign Nigeria’s diplomatic priorities in response to evolving global dynamics.

His words, “These officers have ensured Nigeria remains active in global discussions, including trade negotiations, security dialogues, and bilateral engagements. To suggest otherwise undermines their competence and dedication.

This process requires careful vetting and must align with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which places competence above cronyism — a fact the ADC conveniently ignores.

Nigeria, under President Tinubu, has strengthened its role in ECOWAS, expanded relations with African nations, and actively participated in forums like the G20 and UN General Assembly.

The Tinubu administration is not dragging its feet. It is meticulously working to ensure that Nigeria’s next set of ambassadors reflect the country’s renewed ambition to reclaim its leadership role both on the continent and globally.

The appointment of ambassadors will be announced in due course and will mark a new chapter in Nigeria’s assertive and purposeful foreign policy.

The administration’s clear and public stance reflects transparency and sovereignty.”