Nigeria, on Monday awarded nineteen officers of the Nigerian Foreign Service with the title of Ambassadors-in-Situ at an Investiture Ceremony in Abuja.
The ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Maitama Tuggar, on Monday, brought together senior government officials, public office holders, and distinguished guests to witness the conferment of the prestigious title on the deserving officers.
In his keynote address, the Minister stated the significance of the investiture as a defining milestone in the professional trajectory of career diplomats in the service.
He emphasized that the rank of Ambassador represents not only recognition of dedication and excellence but also a heightened responsibility to uphold Nigeria’s image and advance its foreign policy objectives.
He further reiterated the importance of strengthening professionalism within the diplomatic service, while noting the need for a balanced approach in appointing Heads of Mission.
The officers were conferred with the title of Ambassador-in-Situ, in recognition of their distinguished service, commitment, and contributions to the Ministry.
According to the Spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the conferment is sequel to the promotion of the affected officers to the rank of Deputy Director in the Federal Civil Service.
The investiture reflects the Ministry’s sustained commitment to merit, institutional excellence, and capacity building within Nigeria’s diplomatic architecture.
In his closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, PhD, congratulated the honourees and urged them to uphold the highest standards of diplomacy.
He noted that their elevation comes at a critical time in Nigeria’s engagement with the international community and charged them to remain steadfast in promoting the country’s interests globally.
Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Ambassador Suleiman Mohammed Ousman expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of the Ministry and the Federal Government for the recognition.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the newly invested Ambassadors-in-Situ to continue serving with professionalism, integrity, and dedication to national interests.