Tinubu’s 65 Envoys Face Senate Scrutiny as Screening Enters Second Phase

The Senate on Wednesday intensified the screening of ambassadorial nominees forwarded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking the second phase of a process that involves 65 career and non-career diplomats.

The session, chaired by Senator Sani Bello, featured a mix of seasoned diplomats and prominent figures, including retired military chiefs and political leaders. However, the exercise took an unexpected turn when Ekiti nominee Adeyemi Emmanuel failed to complete a simple identification of the three senators representing his state. The omission prompted questions from lawmakers, who expressed concerns about the preparedness of nominees selected to project Nigeria’s image abroad.

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong insisted that competence and situational awareness remain critical for anyone aspiring to serve as an ambassador. Though colleagues such as Senator Yunus Akintunde pleaded for understanding, the incident added tension to an otherwise straightforward screening session.

Also appearing before the committee were career diplomats Ahmed Sulu Gambari, Maimuna Besto, Monica Enebechi, Ahmed Monguno, Kingsley Onaga, Magaji Umar, and Aminu Nasir.

One of the high points was the appearance of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), who received applause after being asked to “take a bow” in line with legislative tradition for serving lawmakers.

Tinubu’s list includes notable non-career nominees such as former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazzau (rtd.), and former presidential aide Ita Enang.

The committee is expected to conclude its work within one week and present its recommendations to the Senate.