By Chioma Favour
📍Abuja — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Nigeria has commenced an induction programme for newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate, aimed at equipping them with the knowledge and skills required for effective diplomatic service.
The induction, which began on Monday in Abuja, is designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, diplomatic protocols, mission administration, and consular responsibilities.
According to the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the programme will also expose the envoys to the expectations of the Federal Government as they prepare to assume their roles abroad.
Addressing the diplomats, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, congratulated them on their appointments, noting that their selection reflects the confidence placed in them by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
She described the envoys as Nigeria’s representatives on the global stage, whose actions and engagements will significantly influence the country’s international image and relationships.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the diplomats to align their duties with the administration’s foreign policy framework, anchored on the 4Ds Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora. She also emphasised the need to prioritise economic diplomacy by attracting foreign direct investment, boosting trade, and promoting tourism.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of consular services, stressing that Nigerians abroad must feel the presence and protection of their government through responsive and efficient missions.
She called for professionalism, discipline, and accountability, warning that diplomatic privileges must not be abused.
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described the appointments as a sacred national duty.
He noted that Nigeria’s foreign policy has been repositioned to prioritise the welfare of its citizens, urging the envoys to deliver tangible outcomes that will enhance national development and strengthen Nigeria’s global standing.
Akume also charged them to uphold patriotism, respect the laws and cultures of their host countries, and remain loyal to Nigeria.
Representatives of the National Assembly also delivered goodwill messages, assuring the diplomats of legislative support, particularly in areas of oversight and funding for foreign missions.
The induction programme will continue with technical sessions covering diplomatic practice, mission management, protocol, consular affairs, economic diplomacy, security coordination, and multilateral engagement.
The initiative underscores the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic corps and ensuring its representatives abroad deliver proactive and results-driven service.
