Former Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Political Matters, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has called on the National Assembly to thoroughly screen the newly submitted ambassadorial nominees, raising concerns about their integrity and legal histories.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, the political analyst said national interest must come before politics, regional considerations, or ethnic sentiments.
He stated, “There are some nominees who need much deeper scrutiny regarding their background, integrity, and past records. I hope the President, having nominated them, will allow the National Assembly to carry out a proper and thorough vetting process.”
Baba-Ahmed emphasised that integrity should remain the top priority, noting that some nominees have unresolved allegations against them, while others are still involved in court cases. According to him, a proper review would uphold the national interest, strengthen the fight against corruption, and ensure credible representation in Nigeria’s foreign missions.
Commenting on the late release of the ambassadorial list, he expressed disappointment, saying: “Unfortunately, I cannot applaud President Tinubu. This should have been done much earlier. These outgoing ambassadors now have barely a year and a half to serve before their recall. We have raised the issue of delayed appointments several times, but the presidency did not act sooner.”
Baba-Ahmed resigned from his role in April 2025, citing personal reasons and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of key national issues.