Former presidential aide Laolu Akande emphasized the need for President Bola Tinubu to appoint ambassadors to key countries if Nigeria hopes to secure a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Akande highlighted that while Vice President Kashim Shettima recently advocated for African representation on the Security Council at the UN General Assembly, diplomatic groundwork needs to be done to support this demand.
Akande stressed the importance of sending ambassadors to major global hubs like New York, Washington DC, and London, as well as influential African countries. “If Nigeria is serious about getting this seat, ambassadors in these strategic locations are essential,” he said.
In June 2023, following Tinubu’s inauguration, the president recalled all Nigerian ambassadors from their posts, leaving many embassies and high commissions vacant. Despite this, over a year later, a new list of ambassadorial appointments has yet to be sent to the Senate for approval.
Akande warned that the delay could hinder Nigeria’s chances, stating, “Securing a seat on the Security Council won’t be easy, and there’s strong opposition we need to overcome.”
