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President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong directive to Nigeria's newly appointed ambassadors, charging them to hit the ground running and reposition the country on the global stage.
The President, speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, on Monday, April 27, made it clear that the era of ceremonial postings is over.
"Mr President made it clear that their mandate is results: drive investment, deepen partnerships, and reposition Nigeria globally. The world is shifting fast. Nigeria must lead," Akume posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account after addressing the envoys.
A Major Shift in Foreign Policy Priorities
In a significant policy shift, President Tinubu announced a reordering of Nigeria's foreign policy priorities.
The new order of focus is now:
1. Demography
2. Development
3. Diaspora
4. Democracy
Previously, Democracy came first. This change, according to the President, places Nigerians at the centre of all engagements and outcomes. The message is clear: leveraging Nigeria's large young population, driving tangible development, engaging the diaspora for investment, and then promoting democratic values.
Specific Orders to Envoys
President Tinubu charged the new ambassadors to be proactive and strategic in four key areas:
· Telling Nigeria's story credibly to counter negative narratives.
· Attracting foreign direct investment.
· Strengthening trade ties with host nations.
· Protecting the welfare and rights of Nigerians abroad.
"They must reflect professionalism and patriotism. The world is watching—and we must deliver," the SGF quoted the President.
Meanwhile, 2027 Talk Heats Up
In a related political development, a former presidential aspirant, Stanley Osifo, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Osifo made the announcement on Monday at a press conference in Abuja, revealing plans to purchase the party's ₦100 million nomination forms.
His declaration comes despite all 22 APC governors openly backing President Tinubu as the party's sole candidate for the 2027 election. However, Osifo insisted that endorsements do not automatically determine the party's flagbearer, dismissing claims that he has the President's backing.
What This Means
President Tinubu's new marching orders signal a shift toward a results-oriented foreign service. Ambassadors are no longer just ceremonial representatives; they are now economic and diplomatic warriors tasked with delivering tangible benefits back home.
As the envoys depart for their various posts, all eyes will be on how quickly they implement this new "Demography-first" doctrine.
Keep it locked on harmony Reporters for more updates on this story and other breaking news from Abuja.
Source: Naija News
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