In a significant boost to President Bola Tinubu's diplomatic reshuffle, the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs has cleared former Aviation Minister Chief Femi Fani-Kayode and a cadre of prominent nominees, including media personality Reno Omokri and ex-governors, paving the way for their confirmation as Nigeria's envoys abroad.
The clearance came during Thursday's plenary session at the National Assembly, where the nominees underwent rigorous screening by the committee. Fani-Kayode, nominated to represent Osun State as a non-career ambassador, faced questions on his extensive political experience and vision for bolstering Nigeria's international ties.
Sources close to the proceedings described his responses as "confident and articulate," highlighting his past roles in aviation and public communications as assets for diplomatic engagement.
Joining Fani-Kayode in the cleared batch were Reno Omokri (Delta), a vocal presidential aide-turned-commentator; former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; ex-Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; and former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, among others from President Tinubu's 32-nominee list submitted last month.
The group, comprising 15 career diplomats and 17 non-career figures, arrived amid heightened media scrutiny and calls from some quarters, Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume, to review the list for balance and merit.Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, commended the committee's thorough vetting process, which included assessments of nominees' credentials, integrity, and alignment with Nigeria's foreign policy goals.
"These clearances mark a step forward in strengthening our global footprint," Akpabio stated, urging full Senate ratification in the coming days to avoid delays in postings.
The move is part of Tinubu's broader strategy to inject fresh political energy into Nigeria's diplomatic corps, with assignments yet to be announced pending final approval. Critics, however, have decried the inclusion of high-profile politicians as "patronage politics," arguing it sidelines career diplomats. Supporters counter that diverse expertise will enhance Nigeria's advocacy on economic recovery and security at international forums.
Fani-Kayode, 64, whose nomination stirred buzz given his fiery public persona and history of legal battles, expressed gratitude on social media post-screening: "Honored to serve Nigeria on the world stage. Together, we rise."
His clearance resolves earlier speculations of potential hurdles, positioning him as a key player in the administration's outreach efforts.With the Yuletide season approaching, the swift Senate action is seen as timely, ensuring envoys can assume roles early in the new year.
The full Senate is expected to vote on the nominations next week, potentially finalizing what could be one of the largest ambassadorial overhauls in recent Nigerian history.
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