Kunle Fagbemi: Nigeria's Diplomatic Vacuum Due to Inexperienced Government 'Actors'

Kunle Fagbemi has pointed to the lack of an ambassadorial presence in Nigeria as a consequence of individuals in power who are uninformed about statecraft and disregard the principles of diplomacy.

In an interview with ARISE News on Tuesday, Fagbemi addressed the escalating concerns regarding the failure of several countries to provide agrément to Nigeria’s recently appointed ambassadors. This issue arises amid worries that the proposed tenure of these ambassadors may be too brief for acceptance by host countries.

Following the nomination of ambassadors-designate, senior leadership within the Presidency and the Foreign Service noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has encountered difficulties in obtaining the necessary formal approval from receiving nations. As Nigeria approaches its next presidential election in February 2027, and with President Bola Tinubu's first term concluding in May of the same year, officials fear that some nations may hesitate to accept ambassadors whose terms might last merely a year.

Fagbemi shared his thoughts on the matter, stating, “It is unfortunate that we have a system filled with individuals who should not be in government. If they must be part of the government, it is crucial for them to comprehend that they are engaging in statecraft. Statecraft differs significantly from mere showmanship. The manner in which some of them communicate lacks the refinement and sophistication expected from an adept in statecraft. Furthermore, some individuals appear determined to validate the current administration at any cost and are reluctant to engage with necessary materials. And if they do read, what are they focusing on?”

Referencing the 1961 Vienna Convention and other diplomatic protocols, Fagbemi emphasized that no nation is allowed to maintain an embassy without an ambassador for longer than 90 days, a standard Nigeria has not complied with since the recall of its ambassadors in September 2023.

“You cannot have removed and recalled ambassadors since September 2023 and then expect host countries to be appreciative,” he remarked. “They will respond — and that is precisely what is transpiring.”

Fagbemi also criticized the Senate for endorsing certain nominees, despite widespread public objections, accusing the legislature of rubber-stamping appointments without adequate examination.

He cautioned that foreign nations are closely monitoring the situation and are reacting in kind, describing the ongoing situation as a foreseeable diplomatic backlash rather than an unforeseen challenge.