President Bola Tinubu has tasked Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners with a clear mandate: rebuild the country’s global image, attract investment and ensure that foreign policy delivers tangible benefits to citizens.
Addressing the envoys at an induction course organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said their postings were a vote of confidence in their capacity to advance Nigeria’s interests in an increasingly complex world.
A statement issued by the SGF’s office said the President expects the diplomats to “aggressively pursue foreign investments, strengthen strategic partnerships and reposition the country’s global image in line with evolving diplomatic realities.”
Tinubu noted that shifting geopolitical alliances, economic volatility, rapid technological change, climate pressures and new security threats have made diplomacy more demanding. In this environment, he said, Nigerian envoys must embrace modern, results-driven methods rather than rely solely on traditional statecraft.
He urged them to blend conventional diplomacy with digital engagement, public diplomacy and strategic communication, using these tools to highlight Nigeria’s reforms and achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Central to their mission, he added, is telling Nigeria’s story “in a credible and compelling manner” to counter negative stereotypes and reshape global perceptions.
The President also unveiled what he described as a policy shift in Nigeria’s external relations, a reordering of the country’s 4D foreign policy doctrine. Previously framed around Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, the priorities have been rearranged to Demography, Development, Diaspora and Democracy.
By placing demography first, Tinubu said, the doctrine puts Nigerians at the heart of foreign policy, ensuring that international engagements are judged by how they improve lives at home. He stressed that missions must be proactive in promoting trade, attracting foreign direct investment and technology, and safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.
Tinubu called for professionalism, integrity and patriotism, reminding the envoys that they are both the face of government and custodians of Nigeria’s reputation abroad. He pressed them to be accountable and prudent with public resources, with clear performance benchmarks tied to national development goals.
Describing the induction as critical preparation for service in a rapidly changing world, the President urged the diplomats to justify the trust placed in them. “You have a special responsibility in helping to reposition Nigeria in global affairs. The world is watching,” he said.
