Improve Nigeria’s image abroad, Tinubu tells new envoys

President Bola Tinubu has charged Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to improve the country’s global image, attract foreign investments and strengthen strategic partnerships.

Tinubu gave the charge on Monday at the opening of an induction course for the envoys held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

The President was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

According to a statement by the SGF’s Media Aide, Yomi Odunuga, the appointments reflected the administration’s confidence in the envoys’ ability to advance Nigeria’s interests on the international stage.

The statement read: “Tinubu charged Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to aggressively pursue foreign investments, strengthen strategic partnerships and reposition the country’s global image in line with evolving diplomatic realities.”

Tinubu said the global system is changing rapidly because of shifting geopolitical realities, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, climate challenges and emerging security threats.

He said these developments have made the role of diplomats more important and called for a modern, results-driven approach to diplomacy.

He said: “The international system is evolving rapidly.

“We must be prepared to meet these challenges by focusing on how best to protect and promote Nigeria’s national interest.”

The President urged the envoys to combine traditional diplomacy with digital engagement, public diplomacy and strategic communication while projecting the achievements of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He also stressed the need to tell Nigeria’s story in a credible and convincing way to improve global perception.

Tinubu called on the envoys to be proactive and innovative in promoting trade, attracting foreign direct investment and bringing technology into the country.

He added that protecting the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora must remain a top priority for all missions.

The President also announced a reordering of Nigeria’s foreign policy framework known as the 4D Doctrine.

Originally built around Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, he said the priorities have now been rearranged to Demography, Development, Diaspora and Democracy.

He said: “This re-ordering has put the Nigerian people at the centre of our foreign policy agenda and is aimed at harnessing outcomes for their maximum benefit.”

Tinubu stressed the need for professionalism, integrity and patriotism in diplomatic service, saying envoys must serve as both government representatives and custodians of Nigeria’s image abroad.

He also urged missions to remain accountable, prudent and result-driven, with clear goals that support national development.

The President commended the National Assembly for the quick confirmation of the nominees and urged the envoys to justify the confidence placed in them.

He said: “You have a special responsibility in helping to reposition Nigeria in global affairs.

“The world is watching.”