President Bola Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to intensify efforts aimed at improving the nation’s international reputation, while also prioritising the attraction of foreign investments and the strengthening of strategic global partnerships.
The President issued the charge on Monday during the opening of an induction programme for the envoys held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
In a statement released by the Media Aide to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu was quoted as saying, “Tinubu charged Nigeria’s newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to aggressively pursue foreign investments, strengthen strategic partnerships and reposition the country’s global image in line with evolving diplomatic realities.”
The President noted that the international system is currently undergoing significant transformation, driven by geopolitical shifts, economic instability, rapid technological changes, climate concerns, and emerging security threats.
He stressed that these developments make the work of diplomats more demanding and important than ever.
According to him, Nigeria’s envoys must now adopt modern and result-oriented diplomatic practices to effectively safeguard and promote national interests.
“The international system is evolving rapidly. We must be prepared to meet these challenges by focusing on how best to protect and promote Nigeria’s national interest,” Tinubu said.
He encouraged the diplomats to blend traditional diplomatic methods with digital diplomacy, strategic communication, and public engagement, while actively promoting the achievements of his administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also stressed the need for Nigeria’s story to be told in a credible and persuasive manner to improve global perception.
Tinubu further urged the envoys to be proactive in building partnerships, expanding trade relations, and attracting foreign direct investment as well as advanced technology into the country.
He added that the protection and welfare of Nigerians living abroad should remain a central priority for all diplomatic missions.
Announcing what he described as a restructuring of Nigeria’s foreign policy direction, the President revealed a new arrangement of the country’s 4D Doctrine.
Previously based on Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora, he said the order has now been revised to Demography, Development, Diaspora and Democracy.
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He explained that the adjustment is intended to place Nigerian citizens at the core of foreign policy formulation and ensure that diplomatic engagements produce measurable benefits for them.
“This re-ordering has put the Nigerian people at the centre of our foreign policy agenda and is aimed at harnessing outcomes for their maximum benefit,” he said.
Tinubu also emphasised the need for professionalism, integrity, accountability and patriotism in the conduct of diplomatic duties, noting that ambassadors represent both the government and the image of Nigeria abroad.
He urged them to manage public resources responsibly and set clear performance targets that contribute to national development.
He encouraged participants to fully engage with the induction programme, describing it as vital for equipping them with the skills needed to navigate today’s complex global environment.
The President also commended the National Assembly for the swift confirmation of the appointees and charged the envoys to justify the confidence placed in them.
“You have a special responsibility in helping to reposition Nigeria in global affairs. The world is watching,” Tinubu said.