President Bola Tinubu may prioritize ambassadorial postings to G-20 nations as part of a strategic approach to strengthen Nigeria’s global economic partnerships, according to a statement by presidential spokesperson Dr. Daniel Bwala.

In a post shared Monday on X, Bwala acknowledged public concern over the delay in releasing the ambassadorial list, attributing the hold-up to funding constraints affecting Nigeria’s foreign missions. He emphasized that the President is considering a targeted rollout, beginning with countries that hold significant economic ties with Nigeria.

“Despite the surrounding clamor, the President can strategically prioritize appointments to G-20 nations, recognizing their critical economic partnerships with us,” - Bwala.

The delay follows the recall of over 80 ambassadors in 2023, leaving Nigeria’s 109 foreign missions—comprising embassies, high commissions, and consulates—without substantive heads. While interim diplomatic staff remain in place, Bwala noted that full ambassadorial appointments are essential to restore Nigeria’s diplomatic presence and credibility abroad.

Meanwhile, former Foreign Minister and seasoned diplomat Prof. Ibrahim Gambari is set to represent Nigeria at the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. His participation comes on the heels of his role in Nairobi, Kenya, where he joined a five-day African Union (AU) panel reviewing governance, peace, and security frameworks.

The AU panel, chaired by former South African Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, included prominent figures such as Amre Moussa of Egypt, Sam Kutesa of Uganda, and Mahamet Saleh Annadif of Chad. AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye also attended the sessions held from September 1 to 5.

Speaking to journalists in Ilorin, Gambari said his work with the AU reform panel “underscores Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s search for sustainable peace and security.” He is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the African Economic Global Convergence (AEGC) summit on September 21, where he will receive the AEMA Black Prize for excellence in diplomacy.

Gambari will also participate in a presidential roundtable commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Ezulwini Consensus, which advocates for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council. Later in the month, he will chair a high-level roundtable on unlocking economic opportunities in the Gulf of Guinea, focusing on energy, maritime, and security cooperation.