Tinubu upgrades Bianca Ojukwu as substantive Foreign Affairs Minister, names new minister of state

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new minister of foreign affairs.

She takes over from Yusuf Tuggar, who recently stepped down to contest the Bauchi governorship election in 2027.

Sola Enikanolaiye has also been named minister of state for foreign affairs.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu had previously served as minister of state for foreign affairs before her elevation.

Enikanolaiye, a native of Kogi State, was until his appointment the senior special assistant to the president on foreign affairs and international relations. A seasoned diplomat, he has spent more than three decades in Nigeria’s foreign service.

He has held key positions including permanent secretary in the ministry of foreign affairs and has served in diplomatic missions in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.

Tinubu said the appointments are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s foreign policy framework, enhancing efficiency, and deepening global engagement.

He urged the new appointees to prioritise Nigeria’s national interest, boost economic diplomacy, promote regional stability, and safeguard the welfare of Nigerians abroad.

“The President noted that these appointments are part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships,” the statement reads.