Dr. Roberts Anya Nkata from Veritas University Abuja has indicated that Nigeria's failure to appoint ambassadors to most diplomatic posts is detrimental to the nation’s trade relations, security partnerships, and international influence.
In an interview on ARISE News on Sunday, the scholar in political affairs and diplomacy expressed concern that the ongoing delay, nearly three years after the recall of ambassadors, could weaken Nigeria's diplomatic outreach and economic opportunities.
He noted that the absence of ambassadors significantly hampers Nigeria’s capacity to negotiate trade and investment treaties and limits access to high- level intelligence collaboration with other nations.
"Since 2003, we have recalled approximately 109 ambassadors but only managed to redeploy three despite screening 64 of them. The lack of an ambassador means the individual in charge is a chargé d'affaires, who has restricted access to the relevant government authorities," he stated.
Dr. Nkata further explained that foreign governments prefer engaging with ambassadors due to their authoritative status.
"For example, if I need to convey a critical message to another country, I would rather interact with the ambassador than the chargé d'affaires because the latter holds limited authority," he elaborated.
He underscored the essential role ambassadors play in enhancing Nigeria’s economic interests globally and facilitating potential investments.
"These ambassadors are crucial for many functions. While financial challenges may arise, it’s vital to recognize the critical role they play in promoting trade and investment for our nation," he remarked.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of ambassadors in sharing intelligence and fostering security cooperation.
"In terms of security, it is the ambassadors who are entrusted with sharing sensitive intelligence crucial for our fight against insecurity in Nigeria," he noted.
Dr. Nkata cautioned that sending ambassadors to only a few countries might convey a message that Nigeria prioritizes some relationships over others.
"From another perspective, if we have sent ambassadors to merely three countries, other nations might wonder why they aren’t deemed important enough for similar appointments," he expressed.
He added that every diplomatic action sends a signal in the realm of international relations.
"In matters of international relations, countries scrutinize every action you take and interpret the implications behind those actions," he indicated.
Commenting on reports suggesting that some diplomats resort to borrowing money for foreign postings, Dr. Nkata conveyed his disapproval.
"I truly find it perplexing why anyone would need to borrow money for a national assignment. If true, it's inappropriate. Such actions should not happen," he asserted.
While acknowledging potential financial strains on the government, he insisted that the delay has been excessive.
"How long can we endure political reforms? That’s the pressing question. Since 2023, the wait has been prolonged," he argued.
He urged that ambassadorial appointments should be prioritized given their significant economic and diplomatic advantages.
"The government may have its priorities, but these ambassadorial positions should be at the forefront due to their potential benefits," he advised.
Despite the delays, Dr. Nkata affirmed that Nigeria maintains a clear foreign policy framework focused on non-alignment.
"Our primary foreign policy is non-alignment. We do not align with any single country; we forge relationships with all, including the USA, UK, Russia, China, and more, ensuring no nation dictates our affairs," he stated.
He elaborated that this strategy provides Nigeria with the flexibility to partner with whichever country offers the most advantageous terms at any given time.
Dr. Nkata concluded by emphasizing that promptly assigning ambassadors would bolster Nigeria's presence on the global stage and prevent the country from missing out on economic and diplomatic opportunities.
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