Fashola urges better training for new ambassadors
Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that newly appointed ambassadors, especially non-career envoys, receive thorough briefings on Nigeria’s policies and economic priorities before taking up their roles. Speaking at the Nigeria Reputation Summit 2026 in Abuja, Fashola stressed the importance of equipping ambassadors with up-to-date information to effectively represent Nigeria abroad. He shared personal experiences highlighting gaps in diplomatic knowledge and urged immediate action to address these issues. Fashola also suggested that Nigeria should focus on attracting visitors rather than sending officials abroad.
What we know
- Babatunde Fashola recommended that ambassadors be fully briefed on national policies, investment frameworks, and economic priorities before their postings.
- He recounted instances where Nigerian ambassadors lacked knowledge of key national positions, which he said undermines the country’s interests.
- Fashola argued that Nigeria should host more international visitors and events, leveraging its infrastructure and culture to improve its global image.
- He criticized the practice of ambassadors inviting ministers to visit host countries, suggesting instead that foreign partners should be encouraged to visit Nigeria.
- President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr Ike Neliaku, clarified that lobbying is a legitimate public relations function and denied defending the Federal Government’s $9m US lobbying deal.
