A former Federal Character Commissioner and ex-Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently assign duty posts to recently confirmed Nigerian ambassadors, warning that the delay is fueling public concern and undermining Nigeria’s foreign policy effectiveness.

In a press statement personal signed by him titled “Dear President, What Happened to Appointed Ambassadors?”, Olowofela expressed worry that several months after their nomination and Senate confirmation, the ambassadors-designate are yet to be deployed to their respective countries of assignment.

According to him, the prolonged delay is being interpreted by many Nigerians as administrative ineptitude and a lack of clear direction in the conduct of the nation’s diplomatic affairs.

“Few months ago you nominated Ambassadors and have since been cleared by Senate however they are yet to be given duty posts,” Olowofela wrote, urging the President to act swiftly to enable them perform their expected national duties.

The former commissioner emphasized that ambassadors play critical roles in facilitating cordial relationships between Nigeria and the comity of nations, protecting Nigerian interests abroad, and stimulating economic cooperation between Nigeria and host countries.

He noted that beyond ceremonial functions, envoys are central to advancing economic diplomacy, attracting foreign investments, strengthening bilateral trade, and fostering security collaborations.

“There are outstanding jobs expected of them,” he stated, listing responsibilities such as promoting Nigeria’s economic interests, ensuring the safety of Nigerians abroad, and deepening international partnerships that could support the administration’s economic rejuvenation agenda.

Olowofela pointed to reports of hardship faced by Nigerians in some foreign countries, particularly citing the situation in Libya, where migrants have in recent years faced detention, persecution and other forms of abuse.

He argued that the presence of a substantive ambassador could significantly improve diplomatic engagement and provide timely intervention in protecting vulnerable Nigerians.

“It may suffice to know sir, Nigerians are suffering undue hardship in some Nations, typical examples is Libya experience, suffering and persecution. It’s a problem that can be solved by the Ambassador,” he wrote.

The former commissioner also referenced the President’s recent diplomatic engagements, including meetings with officials of Turkey, suggesting that resident Nigerian ambassadors should ordinarily handle follow-up actions to translate high-level discussions into concrete outcomes.

“Recently you met with the Turkey Government on some collaboration, Nigerian Ambassador ought to do the follow up,” he noted.

Olowofela further cited the President’s recent medical visit to France, arguing that a fully functional diplomatic mission would ensure smooth coordination, protocol arrangements, and ease of access during such official trips.

“Your Ambassador ought to be on ground to ensure easy access and easy passage,” he stated.

While acknowledging what he described as the administration’s efforts at domestic economic reforms, Olowofela questioned the corresponding level of international engagement to complement local initiatives.

“Economy rejuvenation is clearly a major achievement of your Government. While you are tackling local economic problems what are the corresponding international inputs from other Nations?” he asked.

He maintained that effective diplomacy is a crucial pillar of economic recovery, particularly at a time when Nigeria seeks foreign direct investment, debt restructuring support, expanded trade agreements and security cooperation.

The former commissioner concluded his appeal with a direct call to action: “Dear PBAT, act now. A stitch in time saves nine.” (The Sun)

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