Political Scientists Decry State Of Nigeria’s Diplomatic Missions, Set Agenda For Ambassadors

The Political Science Association of Nigeria (NPSA) has drawn the Federal Government’s attention to what it described as the deplorable state of the country’s diplomatic missions abroad.

The association also advised the 65 newly appointed Nigerian ambassadors to develop effective strategies to penetrate both official and unofficial structures in their countries of accreditation for the benefit of Nigeria.

It further urged the ambassadors to pursue economic diplomacy, as encapsulated in the doctrine of the 4Ds of the Nigerian state.

In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Hassan Saliu, the association stated: “Institutional and systemic decay is the primary concern of this intervention. The NPSA seeks to address ambassadors who may be basking in the euphoria of their appointments while overlooking the weight of challenges that await them at their duty posts.

“It is instructive to note that the ambassadors are assuming office at a time when Nigeria’s global outlook is not encouraging. External dependence is evident, shaped by the character of the Nigerian state.

“For instance, controversial agreements have been reached with other actors in the international system, which Nigerians continue to criticise due to the perceived subjugation of national interests—the latest being the agreement between the UK and Nigeria on port development. It will be the responsibility of these ambassadors-designate to inject life into such agreements.

“At one level, and judging by public commentary, one may question the role of public opinion in Nigeria’s foreign policy. Many citizens believe it has become less significant, leading to apathy about its outcomes.

“Specifically, the ambassadors will be deployed to various parts of the world with limited resources. The entrenched envelope budgeting system has worsened funding constraints, leading to undiplomatic situations such as the accumulation of debts for municipal services abroad and punitive measures by host countries, including the withdrawal of essential services.

“Experience shows that Nigeria spends far less on foreign policy than some other African countries, resulting in undiplomatic treatment of its missions. The implication is that the ambassadors must be fully aware of the challenges ahead—it may not be as rosy as they expect.

“As a result, the era of luxurious living for Nigerian ambassadors appears to be over. For more than two years, many missions have operated without substantive heads, creating administrative strain that requires urgent attention. Political ambassadors may also discover they earn less than some career officers under them, which could lead to friction. This reality demands careful management to avoid past conflicts.”

The association noted that the principle of strategic autonomy in Nigeria’s foreign policy underscores the need for its advice, adding: “The performance of the new ambassadors will ultimately be measured by their ability to attract needed resources to the country.”

The NPSA also reminded the ambassadors that protecting Nigeria’s interests and those of its citizens abroad remains a core responsibility of diplomacy.

It warned against acting as “cheerleaders” in legitimising allegations against Nigerians in foreign jurisdictions, particularly in languages they may not fully understand.

“They must instead be ready at all times to defend Nigerians until due process is followed—and even beyond. It is hoped that the new ambassadors will bring positive change to Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape,” the statement added.