The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs says 65 of the 69 ambassadors appointed by President Bola Tinubu have been accepted by their host countries, representing a 97 per cent approval rate.
In a statement on Saturday, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said two of the unresolved appointments resulted from the withdrawal of Grace Bent, ambassador designate to Togo, and the death of Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who was nominated for Algeria.
He said the process of replacing Lele was underway.
The ministry said the remaining two appointments, involving Japan and Mexico, were awaiting formal approval from the host countries.
Former presidential spokesperson Reno Omokri was nominated as ambassador to Mexico, while Olumilua Oluwayimika Ayotunwa was posted to Japan.
According to the ministry, both countries have assured Nigeria that their consent would be granted in due course. It added that diplomatic engagements are progressing smoothly and expressed confidence that the outstanding approvals would soon be secured.
The ministry further stated that most of the accepted ambassadors have already arrived in their host countries and presented their letters of credence, officially commencing their diplomatic duties as Nigeria’s representatives abroad.
