By Omoyeni Ojeifo
Nigeria is awaiting diplomatic clearance from only two host countries after 97 per cent of President Bola Tinubu’s ambassadorial nominees received the required approval to take up their postings.
The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs said 65 of the 69 ambassadors-designate assigned to different countries have obtained agrément, the formal consent required before ambassadors can assume office.
According to the ministry, the diplomatic process has progressed smoothly and in line with established international practice.
Kimirbi Ebienfa Imomotimj, Spokesperson for the ministry, made this known in a statement obtained by Persecondnews on Saturday.
The ministry recalled that President Tinubu assigned 69 ambassadors-designate to various countries after they were screened and confirmed by the Senate.
It said the ambassador-designate to the Republic of Togo declined the appointment, prompting the ministry not to submit a request for agrément.
The ministry also disclosed that the ambassador-designate to Algeria died in April 2026, while the process of appointing a replacement is ongoing.
According to the ministry, only two host countries are yet to communicate their acceptance, although both have assured Nigeria that approval will be granted in due course.
It said officials are actively engaging the relevant authorities in the two countries and expressed confidence that the outstanding agréments would soon be received.
The ministry added that most of the cleared ambassadors have already arrived in their host countries and presented their Letters of Credence, formally commencing their duties as President Tinubu’s principal envoys.