The federal government has commenced the vetting of potential candidates to replace the ambassadors recalled by President Bola Tinubu in September 2023. According to sources familiar with the development, background checks are being conducted on possible appointees, with information shared with relevant agencies within the presidency and legislature.

A government source revealed that the issue of funding, which was blamed for the delay in appointing ambassadors, “is being resolved” and “that means the appointments will be announced very soon”. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, had earlier attributed the delay to a lack of funds. However, the federal government has budgeted N302.4 billion for its foreign missions in 2025.

The recall of ambassadors in 2023 created a void in diplomatic leadership at various foreign missions, prompting concern from foreign officials and stakeholders. Despite receiving multiple letters of credence from other foreign ambassadors posted to Nigeria, the president has yet to announce the successors of the recalled ambassadors.