The Federal Government has officially begun the screening process for candidates nominated to fill key diplomatic positions, seeking to address vacancies across Nigeria’s 76 embassies and 22 high commissions worldwide.
This marks a critical step in the country’s effort to restaff its foreign missions after an extended period without ambassadors.
Nominees have been instructed to report to the nearest Department of State Services (DSS) office for necessary security screenings.
Many have also been asked to provide detailed personal records, including educational and professional histories, as part of the comprehensive vetting process.
According to a well-placed source speaking with Vanguard, two former governors from Nigeria’s South-East region, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Okezie Ikpeazu, have already undergone the screening.
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In addition, notable figures such as Shehu Sani, who recently defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and former presidential aide Reno Omokri, are reportedly also among those who have been cleared.
Further confirming the progress of the screening, the source revealed that former Lagos State Deputy Governor Femi Pedro and former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode have both completed the process and received clearance for their upcoming diplomatic roles.
This development comes after a significant announcement by President Bola Tinubu in September 2023, when he recalled all Nigerian ambassadors, both career diplomats and political appointees.
Following a prolonged hiatus, the presidency indicated in March 2025 that the new appointments would be unveiled “very soon.”
Reports have emerged that extensive background checks are being conducted on the nominees, with findings being shared across the presidency and legislative bodies for further scrutiny.
The delay in appointing ambassadors has previously been attributed to budgetary constraints, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, acknowledging that the lack of funding has contributed to the delay in filling these vital diplomatic roles.
