President Bola Tinubu has stirred controversy by approving the posting of four ambassador-designates to France, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Turkey—moves critics say reflect political favoritism over merit. The announcement was made Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The appointments include:
• Ambassador Ayodele Oke to France
• Colonel Lateef Are to the United States
• Ambassador Amin Dalhatu, former ambassador to South Korea, to the United Kingdom
• Usman Isa Dakingari Suleiman, ex-Kebbi State governor, to Turkey
Observers have questioned the choice of a former state governor and a military officer for key diplomatic positions, suggesting these postings may be politically motivated rather than based on diplomatic experience.
The posting of Suleiman to Turkey has drawn particular attention, as it coincides with an upcoming state visit by President Tinubu, fueling speculation that the appointment may be strategically timed for political optics.
Onanuga stated that the approvals were formally communicated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging notifications to the respective countries. The selections are drawn from the 68 ambassadorial nominees previously confirmed by the Senate last December, but critics argue the process may still favor political allies.
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