Former Guber Aspirant Harps on Merit for  Appointment of Ambassadors, Not Political Patronage 

Ibrahim Oyewale in LokojaA former governorship aspirant in Kogi State and a women leader, Grace Adejoh, has said at this critical stage when Nigeria’s image is fast dwindling, appointment of ambassadors must be merit-based and of national interest rather than for political settlement.“The current nominations of some persons as Ambassadors representing Nigeria abroad should be purely based on merit, professionalism and national interest and not  for political patronage,” she said.Princess Adejoh in a press statement made available to journalists in Lokoja, said at a time when the country was grappling with economic challenges, insecurity and declining global confidence, the quality of Nigeria’s foreign representatives was too sensitive and  important to be compromised.

She said an urgent review of the current list would signal responsive leadership and reassure citizens that Nigeria was serious about the quality of its global representation.The statement reads in part: “The recent ambassadorial nominations announced by the Presidency have raised legitimate concerns about our nation’s commitment to merit, professionalism and national interest.

“Ambassadors are not political ornaments; they are the face and voice of Nigeria abroad. Their competence directly influences how the world sees us and how Nigerians are treated outside our borders.“At a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges, insecurity and declining global confidence, the quality of our foreign representatives is too important to be compromised.“Unfortunately, the current list of nominees gives the impression that diplomacy is being treated as a reward system rather than a strategic national responsibility.“This perception is harmful. It reinforces the common belief that influential positions in Nigeria belong not to the most competent, but to the most connected. Hardworking citizens who believe in meritocracy are left discouraged, wondering whether excellence still matters in this country.“The President deserves commendation for demonstrating statesmanship by reconciling with former opponents—an admirable quality in leadership. But certain institutions must remain immune to political considerations.“Ambassadorial appointments fall into this category. They require experience, maturity, discipline and diplomatic finesse. They should never become instruments of settlement.“Having personally witnessed the rigour of diplomatic service while working under one of Nigeria’s finest ambassadors in Singapore, I understand the strategic weight of the role. It demands intellect, tact, and global awareness—qualities that should not be compromised.“The President earned public praise with the appointment of General Musa as Minister of Defence, widely seen as an example of merit rising above politics. Nigerians are simply asking for that same standard in the ambassadorial nominations.“A review of the list would signal responsive leadership and reassure citizens that Nigeria is serious about the quality of its global representation. It would also restore faith in the possibility of fairness and competence in public service.“Nigeria needs credible ambassadors now more than ever. We cannot afford anything less,” the statement added.