Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Joe Keshi, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s recent ambassadorial nominations, questioning the integrity and suitability of several nominees.
The President had on Saturday submitted a list of 32 individuals to the Senate for confirmation. Among them were former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu; former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Okezie Ikpeazu; former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode; and ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri. Earlier, Tinubu had also forwarded the names of Ayo Oke, Amin Dalhatu, and retired Colonel Lateef Are.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Keshi said while a few of the nominees were competent, the majority of the non-career picks were “disturbing,” adding that some individuals “should have no business” representing Nigeria.
According to him, several nominees had poor leadership records and, in a properly functioning system, would face accountability rather than receive diplomatic appointments. He accused the government of rewarding people for political reasons rather than merit.
Keshi also alleged that former NIA Director General Ayo Oke was unfairly removed from office and suggested a conspiracy against him. He added that senior career diplomats were deeply frustrated by their exclusion from the list.
Emphasising the need for professionalism in foreign postings, Keshi recalled that Nigeria’s early diplomatic service was built on competence, independence, and rigorous training—values he said had eroded over time due to political interference.
He appealed to President Tinubu to ensure that the next batch of ambassadorial nominees includes qualified career officers from the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
“These officers are demoralised,” he said. “They have trained for these roles, prepared themselves for years, yet they are being overlooked. Many feel disappointed and betrayed by the system.”
