President Bola Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to intensify efforts in attracting foreign investment, strengthening global partnerships, and improving the country’s international reputation.
The charge was conveyed in Abuja during the opening session of an induction programme for the new envoys, in a statement issued by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Represented at the event by the SGF, Tinubu said the appointments reflect confidence in the diplomats’ ability to advance Nigeria’s interests globally.
He noted that the international environment is undergoing significant changes driven by geopolitical shifts, economic instability, technological advancement, climate concerns, and emerging security challenges, making diplomatic engagement more demanding.
According to him, diplomats must now adopt a more dynamic and results-focused approach that blends traditional diplomacy with digital engagement, public communication, and strategic messaging.
Tinubu stressed the importance of effectively projecting Nigeria’s image abroad and clearly communicating the achievements of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He urged the envoys to actively pursue trade opportunities, attract foreign direct investment, and facilitate technology transfer to support national development.
The president also reiterated that the welfare of Nigerians living abroad should remain a key priority in all diplomatic engagements.
He announced a restructuring of Nigeria’s foreign policy framework known as the “4D Doctrine,” now reordered to prioritise Demography, Development, Diaspora, and Democracy.
He explained that the adjustment is intended to place citizens at the centre of foreign policy and ensure international relations deliver measurable benefits to Nigerians.
Tinubu further called for professionalism, integrity, and patriotism in the discharge of diplomatic duties, describing ambassadors as key representatives of Nigeria’s image overseas.
He emphasised the need for accountability, urging foreign missions to operate with clear performance targets, prudent resource management, and a strong focus on outcomes that support economic growth.
The president encouraged the newly appointed diplomats to take full advantage of the induction programme to prepare for the demands of modern diplomacy.
He also commended the National Assembly for the timely confirmation of the appointments and urged the envoys to justify the confidence placed in them.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s representatives abroad carry a critical responsibility in reshaping the country’s global standing, adding that international attention is firmly on their performance.