President Bola Tinubu has initiated the recall of all Nigerian ambassadors, both career and non-career diplomats. The announcement was made by Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, as conveyed by his media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir, on a recent Saturday.
The official statement regarding the ambassadorial recall clarifies the decision: “In response to inquiries regarding the recall of the Nigerian Ambassador to the UK, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, wishes to confirm that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the recall of all career and non-career ambassadors. Ambassadors, as representatives of the country, serve at the pleasure of the President, and it is within his authority to appoint or recall them from any foreign posting.”
This clarification became necessary in light of the recall of Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Ishola. In a formal letter dated August 31, 2023, addressed to Ambassador Ishola, Minister Tuggar conveyed the President’s decision: “I have the honor of informing you of Mr. President’s directive to recall you from your role as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the United Kingdom. This marks the conclusion of your tenure in this diplomatic capacity.”
The letter outlined the necessary procedures: “In accordance with this communication, you are expected to initiate the process of concluding your diplomatic responsibilities and formally bid farewell to the host government within a sixty-day timeframe, with your return to Nigeria scheduled for no later than October 31, 2023.”
Minister Tuggar expressed gratitude on behalf of President Tinubu for Ambassador Ishola’s dedicated service: “I take this opportunity to convey Mr. President’s appreciation for your contributions as Nigeria’s Ambassador and Principal Representative in the United Kingdom. We eagerly anticipate your return to Abuja, and please accept my thanks and well wishes for your future pursuits.”
This move signifies a significant diplomatic reshuffle as the President exercises his prerogative to reevaluate and reappoint diplomatic representatives, shaping Nigeria’s international engagement strategy.