Outrage Over Tinubu’s Ambassadorial Picks.

The decision by Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, to nominate Reno Omokri and Femi Fani-Kayode as ambassadors sparked widespread anger and disappointment across Nigeria.

The president sent both names along with about 30 others to the Senate for confirmation on November 29, 2025.

The presidency explained that the larger ambassadorial list was a long-awaited reshuffle. They promised that the selected envoys would restore Nigeria’s diplomatic presence abroad after a long absence. In theory, these posts should show competence, seriousness, and Nigeria’s best face to the world.

However, by nominating loud partisan figures, some of whom have a history of divisive statements and political propaganda, the government has turned these appointments into rewards for loyalty rather than merit. Including people like Omokri and Fani-Kayode weakens the seriousness of these diplomatic roles. It sends a discouraging message about which voices matter in shaping Nigeria’s global representation.

Critics from various political backgrounds have expressed their views clearly. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) called the list “immoral and despicable,” labelling many nominees as “sycophants” and claiming the appointments are more about loyalty than Nigeria’s strategic needs. Other groups, including human rights lawyers and public interest advocates, described the decision as “a travesty.” They warned that appointing people accused of undermining democracy or spreading false information would harm Nigeria’s reputation.

For many Nigerians, the nominations feel like a betrayal. It seems like a return to a political patronage-based system that caused decades of neglect, corruption, and decline.

Diplomacy requires careful communication, respect, and a clear focus on national interests. By replacing these values with loyalty and political showmanship, the current administration risks diminishing Nigeria’s foreign policy.

Our ambassadors, as our representatives on the global stage, should reflect our nation’s dignity, not its shortcomings. When the world sees who we send abroad, they should recognise Nigeria’s best, not political opportunists or professional instigators.

If this administration goes ahead with the list, it will set a dangerous precedent: treating diplomatic posts as rewards for political gain rather than as a chance to serve. The Senate and the Nigerian public must demand scrutiny. Ambassadorial positions are too important to be seen as political favours.

This moment should urge us to bring back competence, integrity, and honour to public service. Anything less would continue to undermine Nigeria’s dignity and global standing.