Nigeria Inducts New Ambassadors, Charges Them on Economic Diplomacy and 4D Foreign Policy

By Ifeyinwa Ike

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has kicked off an induction ceremony on Monday for newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners-designate.

This is to equip them for upcoming diplomatic postings with a focus on result-oriented diplomacy.

The program aims to sharpen the envoys’ grasp of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, diplomatic protocols, mission management, consular duties, and government expectations.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, congratulated the appointees, highlighting their selection as a vote of confidence from President BolaTinubu.

She called them Nigeria’s face, voice, and strategic agents abroad, urging them to shape positive global perceptions and bolster bilateral ties.

Ojukwu emphasised advancing the administration’s 4D foreign policy, Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora through economic diplomacy.

She also tasked the Ambassador -designate to attract foreign direct investment, boosting trade and tourism, and supporting economic diversification.

She stressed consular protections for Nigerians abroad, ensuring responsive services, crisis management, and community engagement.

The Minister also demanded professionalism, discipline, integrity, prudence, and accountability, warning that diplomatic privileges are not excuses for misconduct.

In a keynote delivered by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on behalf of President Tinubu, the envoys were tasked with citizen-centered diplomacy that delivers tangible benefits, enhances national development, and elevates Nigeria’s global role.

They must uphold patriotism, respect host countries’ laws and cultures, and show unwavering loyalty.

Representatives from the National Assembly pledged backing, with the Senate promising oversight and funding boosts, and the House stressing accountability and regulatory compliance.

The multi-day induction will feature technical sessions on diplomacy, protocol, consular affairs, economic strategies, security, and spouses’ roles, underscoring the Ministry’s push for proactive, impactful service