The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to project a positive image of Nigeria globally, even as they operate under limited resources and challenging international conditions.
Speaking at the induction programme for career and non-career ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, stressed the importance of diplomats in shaping how Nigeria is perceived and in advancing its national interests abroad.
She acknowledged Nigeria’s internal challenges, including insecurity, funding limitations, and infrastructure gaps, but said envoys should not hide these issues. Instead, they should present them in a way that attracts international cooperation and support.
She said, “Locally, our nation faces genuine challenges of insecurity, resource mobilisation, and infrastructure development. Your task is not to hide these realities but to secure international attention and partnership by amplifying the true picture that, despite these obstacles, this government’s commitment to resolving them remains unparalleled and consistent.”
On operational difficulties, especially inadequate funding, she urged diplomats to be resourceful and efficient.
“One challenge you will inevitably encounter at post is funding. You will find that, whereas your task is vast, the resources placed at your disposal are scarce. A lean budget, however, is not a license for failure; it is a call for prudence and ingenuity. We therefore look forward to your cooperation to ensure improvement on all fronts, because Nigeria has entrusted you with its sovereignty, and sovereignty, even when poorly funded, must be exercised with excellence,” she stated.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described the induction as the beginning of a key national responsibility, noting that the envoys would serve as Nigeria’s representatives, voice, and image in their countries of assignment.
She charged them to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities built on the 4Ds—democracy, development, demography, and diaspora—while promoting economic diplomacy through investment attraction, trade, and tourism.
“The expectations placed upon you are both significant and far-reaching. You are expected to vigorously promote Nigeria’s national interests in line with the foreign policy thrust of the current administration, which is anchored in the 4Ds—Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora.
“This also includes advancing economic diplomacy, attracting foreign direct investment, facilitating trade, promoting tourism, and supporting Nigeria’s drive for economic diversification and sustainable development. You must position Nigeria as a credible and attractive partner for investment and collaboration,” she said.
She also emphasised safeguarding Nigerians abroad, strengthening international partnerships, and maintaining professionalism and accountability in service delivery.
“In addition, you are expected to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, deepen strategic partnerships, and enhance Nigeria’s standing within the international community. You must engage constructively with your host governments, international organisations, and other stakeholders in a manner that promotes peace, security and shared prosperity. Your role in projecting a positive and accurate image of Nigeria cannot be overstated, particularly in a rapidly evolving global environment where perception often shapes reality.
“You must also actively protect the welfare and rights of Nigerians in the diaspora. Our citizens abroad must feel the presence, responsiveness and protection of their government through your missions. Their safety, dignity and prosperity must remain a top priority at all times. Prompt consular services, effective crisis response, and continuous engagement with Nigerian communities are essential elements of your responsibilities,” she said.
She further cautioned that diplomatic immunity must not be abused, urging strict adherence to transparency, discipline, and proper procedures in managing public resources.
The minister added that the evolving global political environment requires diplomats to be proactive, innovative, and results-driven.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed confidence that the envoys would serve with dedication and integrity, contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s global reputation and development.
She also instructed them to align their duties with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Tinubu, aimed at improving national security, economic stability, and governance performance.