Nearly 22 months after recalling all 109 ambassadors in September 2023, President Bola Tinubu has not appointed successors to lead Nigeria’s embassies, high commissions, and consulates worldwide. That sweeping recall included both career and non-career envoys, leaving missions led only by chargés d’affaires. Their interim status lacks the authority and gravitas that ambassadors carry—diminishing Nigeria’s diplomatic effectiveness.

Sources suggest this prolonged hiatus reflects both financial caution and a strategic pivot. Yet critics argue that, with close to ₦300 billion now allocated to foreign missions, the financial excuse no longer holds (Nigeria budgeted ₦302.4 billion in 2025). And as Tinubu approaches the halfway mark of his first term, concerns intensify over the long-term implications of this leadership gap.

Global Turmoil Meets Nigeria’s Diplomatic Vacuum

The world has shifted dramatically since the recall:

• The Russia–Ukraine war remains unresolved.

• Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated; recent US strikes against Iran’s nuclear sites pushed Brent crude past $78/barrel .

• The former US administration threatens visa bans for citizens from 36 countries, with Nigeria facing potential fallout.

This volatile environment demands proactive diplomacy. Yet Nigeria, lacking a permanent diplomatic presence, has limited capacity to engage in negotiations, advocate for its interests, or protect its citizens abroad.

Citizens Left Vulnerable Abroad

In recent months, three Nigerians died overseas—two in Ghana, one in India. With no ambassador to intervene, officials abroad wield limited influence, and families face delays and complex procedures in accessing support. One analyst noted that in Cairo, a Nigerian student detained in early 2025 stayed in custody for days due to absent diplomatic advocacy.

Strategic Marginalization in International Bodies

Nigeria lacks a strong voice at ECOWAS, the African Union, and the UN. Without senior envoys, it cannot influence key decisions or lead regional responses. Diplomats have warned that Nigeria risks being sidelined in global security, trade, and environmental forums .

Trade and Investment Opportunities Slip Away

World leaders may signal interest during Tinubu’s 36 foreign trips, but without ambassadors to cement relationships, talks may remain unfulfilled. Former envoys warn that follow-up visits and concrete policymaking often stall from a lack of on-the-ground diplomacy. Free trade agreements, bilateral investment deals, and foreign direct investment are less likely to materialize under these conditions.

Diplomatic Infrastructure Crumbles

With no permanent leadership, some embassies fall into neglect. Career diplomats—trained and experienced—remain idle in Abuja. One former high commissioner described embassies as “ghost ships,” lacking direction and influence. Without urgent investment and reactivation, Nigeria risks reputational and operational decay.

Official Justifications Begin to Falter

Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar has blamed budget constraints, though government budgets show ample allocation. Presidential aides suggest the government must finalize nominees, which is why vetting only began in March 2025—18 months after the recall. Candidates reportedly face rigorous background checks from intelligence services before advancing.

But detractors note the delay undermines diplomatic credibility. A recent editorial urged urgency: “It is time that government filled these spaces… [there are] telling reputational consequences.”

Previous Administration Also Delayed Appointments

Former President Buhari waited nearly 20 months into his second term before appointing a fresh batch of ambassadors in 2020. Still, Nigeria never went completely vacant; some missions received timely replacements .

Implications for the 4Ds Doctrine

Tinubu’s foreign policy—dubbed the “4Ds”: Democracy, Development, Demography, Diaspora—aims to recast Nigeria as a global voice. However, diplomatic absence undermines that vision. Tinubu’s agenda—leadership within ECOWAS, mobilizing diaspora contributions, democratic advocacy—relies on active diplomacy. Without envoys in place, these ambitions lack organizational muscle.

Life-Saving Diplomacy Under Scrutiny

Consuls and chargés can provide basic support, but they cannot negotiate on behalf of Nigeria in international crises. The detained student in Cairo and other Nigerian migrants abroad lack ambassadorial advocacy to escalate issues to foreign governments or international bodies.

What Comes Next?

Vetting completed earlier this year, sources say appointments may now be “very soon,” with security clearances finalized and nominations cleared by INEC and Senate before submission. Often, new ambassadors formally present credentials months later due to the host country’s agrément process.

Still, further delays could prolong Nigeria’s diplomatic stagnation well past the midpoint of Tinubu’s term.

Conclusion: The Clock Is Ticking

President Tinubu must swiftly reappoint ambassadors to restore Nigeria’s global standing. Filling critical posts in capitals like Washington, Beijing, London, Brasília, Addis Ababa, and Brussels should be a priority. Beyond symbolism, the move is a strategic necessity—protecting citizens, promoting trade, enforcing multilateral commitments, and restoring Nigeria’s voice.

At this crossroads, the government must act before Nigeria’s diplomatic absence becomes its most costly legacy.