Richard Mills, the United States ambassador to Nigeria, has formally ended his tenure and left the country following a recall order by US President Donald Trump.
The US Mission in Abuja confirmed in a statement on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, that the recall had been announced on Monday, December 22, 2025. Mills’ last day in Nigeria was Friday, January 16, 2026.
The recall is part of a broad diplomatic reshuffle affecting nearly 30 ambassadorial and senior diplomatic postings worldwide, including several across Africa.
The move reflects the Trump administration’s America First foreign policy agenda.
Mills, a career Foreign Service officer, was confirmed by the US Senate as ambassador to Nigeria on May 2, 2024, and presented his credentials to President Bola Tinubu on July 25, 2024.
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During his posting, he focused on strengthening cooperation between the United States and Nigeria in security, trade, and immigration.
Analysts say the recall could influence bilateral engagement, particularly in security and visa policy, although routine diplomatic and consular activities are expected to continue without disruption.
The US Embassy in Abuja will operate under interim leadership until a new ambassador is nominated, confirmed, and assumes office.