Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday conferred the title of Ambassador-in-Situ on 19 career diplomats during an investiture ceremony held at Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja.
The event was presided over by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and attended by senior government officials and other dignitaries.
Tuggar described the investiture as a key milestone in the professional progression of Nigerian diplomats, noting that the ambassadorial rank signifies both recognition of service and greater responsibility in representing Nigeria’s interests abroad. He stressed the need to strengthen professionalism within the diplomatic corps and called for a balanced approach in appointing heads of mission.
The ministry said the elevation of the 19 officers followed their promotion to the rank of Deputy Director in the Federal Civil Service, citing their contributions and commitment to service.
Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Ambassador Suleiman Mohammed Ousman expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and ministry leadership, pledging continued dedication to national service.
In his remarks, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, urged the newly decorated ambassadors to uphold high diplomatic standards, noting that their elevation comes at a critical period in Nigeria’s international engagements.
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