FG charges new envoys on investment drive, diaspora protection, economic diplomacy

ABUJA: The Federal Government has commenced the induction of newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja, charging them to prioritise economic diplomacy, attract foreign investment and strengthen the protection of Nigerians abroad.

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

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

She urged them to align with the administration’s foreign policy thrust built on the four pillars of Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, stressing that Nigeria’s foreign missions must now play a more active role in promoting trade, tourism and foreign direct investment.

According to her, embassies and high commissions should move beyond ceremonial diplomacy and become strategic drivers of economic growth by attracting investors and deepening bilateral partnerships in support of Nigeria’s diversification agenda.

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

She said Nigerians abroad should be able to feel the presence of government through timely intervention during emergencies, improved engagement and stronger support systems.

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

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of President Tinubu, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described the appointments as a sacred national responsibility, urging the diplomats to deliver measurable outcomes that would enhance Nigeria’s global image.

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

Members of the National Assembly present at the event pledged legislative support for the missions, while also calling for enhanced oversight, transparency and prudent management 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.