- Nigerian diplomats described as resilient and dedicated despite long-standing operational constraints.
- Ministry condemns ADC for allegedly politicising foreign policy with false claims.
The federal government has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its recent comments on Nigeria’s diplomatic representation and delays in ambassadorial appointments.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Tuesday, described the party’s remarks as misleading, politically motivated and disrespectful to Nigerian diplomats serving abroad.
Alkasim Abdulkadir, special assistant on media and communications strategy to the minister of foreign affairs, signed the statement.
The Ministry said Nigeria’s foreign missions are currently manned by experienced diplomats and competent chargés d’affaires who are effectively representing the country.
Abdulkadir explained that President Bola Tinubu is focused on reforming the foreign service in line with national interests and global trends.
According to the statement, the minister of foreign affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has recently met with top diplomats from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, China, Japan and Egypt.
The SSA also referenced Nigeria’s active participation in multilateral platforms like BRICS, the African Union and ECOWAS.
“The appointment of ambassadors is a sovereign function, not a matter to be rushed for political convenience or partisan appeasement,” the ministry said.
The statement stressed that Tinubu’s approach is based on competence, strategic fit and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Ministry dismissed the ADC’s claim that Nigerian missions had become “sorry symbols”, describing it as false and offensive.
“The ADC’s assertion that Nigerian missions have become ‘sorry symbols’ is not only false but insulting to the hardworking men and women of Nigeria’s foreign service,” the statement read.
While admitting to long-standing funding and structural challenges, the ministry said these issues predate the current administration.
It insisted that morale within the foreign service remains high despite operational difficulties.
“Nigerian diplomats continue to serve with distinction under often difficult circumstances,” the statement added.
It accused the ADC of political opportunism and attempting to turn diplomacy into a campaign tool.
“The ADC’s comments reflect political opportunism and a lack of understanding of foreign policy processes,” the Ministry said.
It also responded to criticism over Nigeria’s handling of a U.S. request involving deported Venezuelan nationals.
The ministry said the government acted in line with its rights, and the minister’s public statement was consistent with modern diplomatic standards.
“The notion that the Foreign Minister’s public articulation of Nigeria’s position was a diplomatic faux pas ignores the realities of modern diplomacy,” the statement said.
It added that transparency and clear communication are now central to foreign policy worldwide.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to restoring credibility to Nigeria’s foreign service through reforms and strategic leadership.
It urged political groups and public commentators to avoid sensationalising diplomatic matters.
“Diplomacy is built on consistency, discretion, and strategic clarity, not populism,” the ministry said.
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