ABUJA, Nigeria (Chatnewstv.com) — Several high-profile nominees, including prominent political figures, arrived at the National Assembly on Thursday to begin their screening by the Nigerian Senate for ambassadorial appointments submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
The list, comprising 15 career diplomats and 17 non-career nominees, has generated significant public debate over the inclusion of numerous individuals known more for their political activities than diplomatic experience.
Among those seen entering the National Assembly complex for the screening were former presidential aide Reno Omokri, former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode, and former Senator Grace Bent. Also present was former Interior Minister Abdulrahman Dambazau.
The 32-man list, submitted to the Senate by President Tinubu, includes former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu and former governors Okezie Ikpeazu and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. The nominees are expected to be deployed to countries where Nigeria maintains diplomatic relations, as well as to international bodies such as the United Nations.
The process is being closely watched, particularly by groups urging a stringent review of the candidates’ backgrounds.
“The Senate has a constitutional duty to thoroughly scrutinize every individual on that list,” said Dr. Uche Okoro, a governance analyst based in Abuja. “Given the crucial role of ambassadors in representing Nigeria globally, their credentials and past public service records must withstand intense scrutiny, especially for the non-career positions.”
The nominations have faced criticism, with opponents questioning the suitability of several political figures for sensitive diplomatic roles. However, the presidency has defended its prerogative to select individuals it believes can effectively promote Nigeria’s interests abroad.
Of the 32 nominees, four women are listed among the career diplomats, and six were nominated as non-career ambassadors.
The screening is a mandatory constitutional step before the nominees can be confirmed and deployed to their respective postings.
