FG Tells New Envoys to Drive Investment, Protect Nigerians Abroad

The Federal Government has begun the induction of newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja, with a strong charge to prioritise economic diplomacy, attract foreign investment and safeguard Nigerians living overseas.

The induction programme, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is designed to prepare the envoys for their diplomatic assignments by exposing them to Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, mission administration, consular duties and international engagement protocols.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the appointments reflected the confidence reposed in them by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that they would serve as Nigeria’s “face and voice” across the world.

She urged the diplomats to align with the administration’s foreign policy agenda built around the four pillars of Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, noting that foreign missions must now play a stronger role in promoting trade, tourism and foreign direct investment.

According to her, embassies and high commissions should go beyond ceremonial diplomacy and become active drivers of economic growth by attracting investors and strengthening bilateral partnerships that support Nigeria’s diversification agenda.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also placed emphasis on the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, insisting that consular services must be prompt, responsive and people-centred.

She said citizens abroad must feel the presence of government through timely intervention during emergencies, stronger engagement and effective support systems.

Warning against abuse of office, she reminded the envoys that diplomatic immunity should not be mistaken for misconduct, urging them to uphold professionalism, discipline, integrity and accountability in the management of Nigeria’s foreign missions.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of President Tinubu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume described the appointments as a sacred national responsibility and challenged the envoys to produce measurable outcomes that would improve Nigeria’s global reputation.

He said the administration had repositioned Nigeria’s foreign policy to focus more on national development and the welfare of citizens, adding that diplomats must respect the laws and cultural sensitivities of their host countries while advancing Nigeria’s interests.

Members of the National Assembly present at the event also pledged legislative backing for the missions, while stressing the need for oversight, transparency and prudent use of public resources in Nigeria’s foreign representations.

The induction programme is expected to continue with technical sessions covering diplomatic practice, protocol, consular affairs, multilateral relations, security coordination and mission management.