President Bola Tinubu has officially approved the deployment of three high-level ambassador-designates. These diplomats will represent Nigeria in France, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Notably, this move marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s presence within the world’s most influential diplomatic hubs.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, announced the decision on Thursday, January 22, 2026. These specific appointments are drawn from a broader list of 68 nominees who were cleared by the Senate in late 2025.
Key Diplomatic Appointments
The President has assigned seasoned professionals and strategic figures to these vital international roles:
- France: Ambassador Ayodele Oke has been designated to lead Nigeria’s mission in Paris.
- United States: Colonel Lateef Are will serve as the ambassador to Washington, D.C.
- United Kingdom: Ambassador Amin Dalhatu has been appointed as the High Commissioner-designate to London.
Dalhatu previously served as Nigeria’s envoy to South Korea. Following these approvals, the Presidency formally instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to notify the host governments. This ensures that the transition follows established international diplomatic protocols.
Background on the Selection Process
The newly assigned diplomats were part of an extensive screening process conducted by the National Assembly. In December 2025, the Senate confirmed a total of 67 ambassadors. This group is split almost evenly between professional and political appointees:
- 34 Career Diplomats: These are experienced professionals from within the foreign service.
- 33 Non-Career Diplomats: These include political appointees and experts from various sectors.
Several high-profile individuals were cleared during these sessions. Notably, the list included former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, former Interior Minister Abdulrahman Dambazau, and former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Okezie Ikpeazu.
Clarification on Turkey Posting
Earlier on Thursday, a statement briefly named former Kebbi State Governor Usman Isa Dakingari Suleiman as the envoy to Turkey. However, the Presidency issued a follow-up statement a few hours later to correct a “naming mix-up.” Consequently, the specific posting for Turkey is currently still under review.
Ultimately, these new postings are expected to reinvigorate Nigeria’s foreign policy. As the administration continues to engage with global partners, these envoys will play a critical role in trade, security, and economic cooperation.
Will these new appointments help Nigeria secure better trade and security deals abroad?
