From Prestige To Paycheck: Rufai Reveals Monthly Income Of Ambassadors

His disclosure came shortly after President Bola Tinubu submitted another batch of 32 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for screening. This list followed an earlier submission of three nominees and includes prominent figures such as former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu, Reno Omokri, and former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Rufai explained in a tweet that ambassadorial salaries are determined by the Consolidated Diplomatic, Consular, and Foreign Service Cadre Salary Structure of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassadors are usually placed at the top grade level, GL 17, and receive various allowances when posted abroad.

He noted that while the basic salary is modest compared to diplomatic pay in other countries, the allowances significantly boost the overall package. Salaries can also vary depending on the posting country, the ambassador’s experience, and fluctuations in exchange rates.

According to Rufai, the basic monthly salary for an ambassador ranges from approximately ₦800,000 to ₦1.2 million, translating to an annual basic pay of ₦9.6 million to ₦14.4 million. These figures align with the earnings of other top officers at the same grade in the public service, factoring in the 2025 minimum wage of ₦70,000 and inflation adjustments.

He emphasized that the basic salary alone does not reflect the full compensation. Ambassadors posted abroad receive additional allowances to cover high living costs, hardship, and official duties. These allowances can raise their total monthly earnings to between ₦2 million and ₦5 million, depending on their country of assignment.