Tinubu nominates ex-Kebbi gov Dakingari as Ambassador

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has forwarded the name of a former governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Usman Dakingari, to the Senate for confirmation as an ambassador.

His renomination came barely two weeks after his name was forwarded and withdrawn amidst controversy.

The president’s new letter was read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during yesterday’s plenary.

In the letter, President Tinubu said the appointment was made pursuant to the provisions of Section 171, subsections (1), (2)(c) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

He urged the upper chamber to give the nomination expeditious consideration, while assuring the Senate President of his highest regards.

The letter read, “Distinguished Senate President, request for the confirmation of a career ambassador. I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate, the appointment of Usman Dakingari as career ambassador.

“Whilst I hope that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominee expeditiously, please accept the assurances of my highest constitution.”

After the letter was read, Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for screening, directing the panel to submit a report to the chamber within one week.

However, during deliberations, senators clarified that the nomination was for a non-career ambassadorship position, despite the wording of the presidential letter, which appeared to suggest a career diplomatic posting.

Lawmakers noted that Dakingari’s profile and political background were more consistent with a political appointment rather than a professional foreign service role, stressing that the screening would be conducted with that distinction in mind.

The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs is expected to conclude its review and submit its report within the stipulated timeframe.

In January, the Presidency had listed Dakingari as an ambassador-designate to Turkey, even though his name did not appear among nominees earlier confirmed by the Senate.

His inclusion generated a flurry of opinions from political and diplomatic circles, leading to the subsequent withdrawal of his name from the list.

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