The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria has called on diplomatic missions to strictly follow established diplomatic channels when conducting official business with the Nigerian Government. This was stated by Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, who emphasized the importance of transmitting official requests through the Ministry rather than directly contacting the Presidency, ministers, or heads of government agencies.
According to Ambassador Enikanolaiye, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs serves as the official bridge between diplomatic missions and the Nigerian Government, ensuring coordination, consistency, and effective follow-up. He cited Article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which requires official business between diplomatic missions and the receiving State to be conducted through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or another agreed ministry.
The Minister of State disclosed that Nigeria has simplified diplomatic procedures by allowing newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to commence official functions after submitting copies of their Letters of Credence to the Ministry, without waiting for a formal presentation to the President. This arrangement aims to facilitate the work of diplomatic missions and should be reciprocated through strict compliance with established diplomatic procedures.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye raised concerns over the use of diplomatic number plates by unauthorized individuals, warning that such practices violate diplomatic regulations, create security risks, and undermine the integrity of the diplomatic corps. He stressed that the observance of diplomatic protocol is linked to Nigeria's broader foreign policy priorities under the President Tinubu administration.
The President Tinubu administration's foreign policy priorities are anchored on Demography, Development, Democracy, and Diaspora. Ambassador Enikanolaiye said Nigeria remains open to partnerships with other countries but will continue to pursue strategic autonomy, mutual respect, reciprocity, and the national interest, while strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
The Minister of State urged diplomatic missions to channel official engagements through the Ministry, stressing that Nigeria is hospitable and open to cooperation, but its openness should not be mistaken for weakness. He emphasized that proper channels ensure the effective conduct of official business and promote a positive relationship between Nigeria and the diplomatic corps.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye's call for strict adherence to diplomatic channels is part of Nigeria's efforts to maintain a strong and effective diplomatic presence. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to work with diplomatic missions to promote cooperation and understanding between Nigeria and the international community.
Key points
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs serves as the official bridge between diplomatic missions and the Nigerian Government.
- Nigeria has simplified diplomatic procedures for newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners.
- The observance of diplomatic protocol is linked to Nigeria's broader foreign policy priorities.
