Following the Clearance
Your Excellency,
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
In light of the recent clearance of ambassadorial nominees’, we respectfully offer this advisory note not in opposition to any decision already taken, but in service of Nigeria’s national interest and in recognition of the immense responsibilities that accompany representative duties abroad.
Our intention is constructive: to emphasise the qualities and obligations required of anyone who will officially speak, act, and stand in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
- Ambassadors as Symbols of National Unity
An ambassador does not represent a political party, a region, or a constituency;
He or she represents Nigeria in its totality.
For this reason, the role demands:
• Even-tempered communication
• A calming, unifying public presence
• Sensitivity to Nigeria’s cultural and ethnic diversity
• Language that heals rather than inflames
Regardless of past public engagements by any nominee, it is essential that anyone stepping into this role fully embraces the posture of national unifier and bridge-builder.
- The Imperative of Diplomatic Restraint and Moderation
Our foreign representatives operate in environments where:
• Statements are scrutinised
• Narratives can shift rapidly
• Diaspora communities carry strong sentiments
• Nigeria’s reputation can be strengthened or weakened by a single remark
Thus, once appointed, a Nigerian ambassador must adopt:
• Diplomatic caution
• Emotional moderation
• Issue framing that reduces tension rather than escalates it
• Messaging that reflects national cohesion
This is both a duty and a discipline.
- Sensitivity to Nigeria’s Internal Ethno-Political Dynamics
Nigeria’s ethnic and political tensions carry global echoes.
Any commentary past or present that resonates strongly with particular communities must be managed with special caution once a nominee becomes a national representative.
It becomes essential for any newly appointed ambassador to:
• Engage all Nigerian groups with fairness
• Avoid rhetoric that may be interpreted as divisive
• Demonstrate equal respect for all regions and peoples
• Project a posture of reconciliation and national healing
This is not directed at any individual; it is a universal requirement for anyone occupying such a sensitive office.
- Protecting Nigeria’s Global Image
Nigeria’s ambassadors shape how our nation is perceived in:
• Multilateral institutions
• Bilateral relationships
• Foreign media
• Diaspora networks
Our representatives must embody:
• Stability
• Balance
• Composure
• Maturity
• Respect for all Nigerians
It is vital that every ambassador regardless of past public life commits to a higher standard of communication befitting the dignity of the Republic.
Advisory Recommendations
In keeping with global diplomatic norms, we respectfully advise that:
- Any nominee cleared for ambassadorial service receives formal orientation in national communication, conflict sensitivity, and diplomatic messaging.
- All ambassadors adopt a public posture that emphasises Nigeria’s unity and avoids any commentary that could reopen old national wounds.
- The Senate encourages newly cleared nominees to publicly reaffirm their commitment to representing all Nigerians equally, irrespective of political, ethnic, or regional differences.
- Ambassadorial appointments continue to prioritise individuals capable of projecting calm, maturity, and national cohesion.
Conclusion
This is not a petition against any individual.
It is a reaffirmation of the sacred duties attached to representing Nigeria before the world.
As citizens deeply committed to the idea of Nigeria First, we believe strongly that every ambassador, who has been cleared must be guided by the values of unity, restraint, empathy, and nation-building.
National representation is not merely a posting.
It is a calling that demands the highest fidelity to Nigeria’s peace, dignity, and collective aspirations.
Respectfully submitted,
Otunba Segun Showunmi
The Alternative
