The Federal Government has commenced the vetting of potential candidates for its diplomatic missions, signalling an end to the prolonged absence of ambassadors.
This development comes 18 months after President Bola Tinubu recalled all ambassadors in September 2023.
Sources indicate that appointments are expected “very soon,” with security services conducting background checks on prospective nominees.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously cited financial constraints for the delay.
However, a government source told Reuters, “the issue is being resolved” and “that means the appointment will be announced very soon.”
The government has allocated ₦302.4 billion for the operation of foreign missions this year.
Security services are currently conducting background checks on potential appointees and have started sharing their findings with relevant agencies in the presidency and legislature.