Nigeria’s latest round of ambassadorial nominations has come under sharp scrutiny, as veteran diplomat Ambassador Joe Keshi cautioned that increasing politicization threatens the nation’s global standing and undermines the professionalism of its foreign service.
Speaking on the Arise News Morning Show on Monday, Keshi—one of Nigeria’s most respected retired envoys—said the country cannot afford to trivialize diplomatic postings at a time when Africa’s largest nation is expected to project strength, stability, and leadership on the world stage. He stressed that countries with serious global ambitions traditionally send their most credible and competent experts abroad.
“Conventional wisdom dictates that we put our best forward,” Keshi asserted. “These should be people with character, credibility, and experience—individuals whom the diplomatic world respects. Anything less diminishes Nigeria’s voice internationally.”
Although he acknowledged that several nominees are well qualified—including former security and intelligence officials with strong service records—Keshi questioned the suitability of others whose political stewardship at home had been controversial. He expressed concern over what he described as a troubling pattern: individuals who performed poorly in public office being rewarded with prestigious diplomatic assignments.
“When a former governor runs a state into the ground and is then given an appointment to represent the country abroad, it undermines Nigeria’s credibility,” the diplomat said.
Keshi also criticized the Senate confirmation process, arguing that under current political dynamics, the exercise has become largely ceremonial. He contrasted the Nigerian approach with that of the United States, where ambassadorial nominees undergo rigorous vetting, including background checks, ethical reviews, and detailed competence assessments.
“Confirmation should not be a mere formality,” he said. “The world is watching, and Nigeria must demonstrate seriousness.”
Addressing concerns surrounding the nomination of individuals who recently left highly sensitive national positions, Keshi suggested that timing matters.
Referring indirectly to the former INEC chairman, he noted that such transitions require careful calibration to prevent controversy and maintain institutional integrity.
While emphasizing that several non-career diplomats on the list are capable and likely to excel, he warned that staggering or piecemeal release of appointments creates the impression of political maneuvering rather than strategic planning.
Keshi urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to prioritize career foreign service officers and safeguard the professional foundations of Nigeria’s diplomacy.
“Let us not parade mediocrity abroad,” he concluded. “If Nigeria wants to be respected internationally, we must put our best foot forward.”
Diplomatic Appointments Under Fire: Keshi Warns Against Politicization of Nigeria’s Foreign Service
