The Presidency has clarified that the newly nominated ambassador-designates are still required to pass through several layers of scrutiny before they can assume office.
Demola Oshodi, Senior Special Assistant (Protocol) to the President, made this known during an appearance on Arise News’ The Morning Show on Tuesday. He explained that beyond the list sent to the Senate, each nominee must still be vetted by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the governments of the countries where they are expected to serve.
When asked what Nigerians should expect from the Senate screening, Oshodi maintained that he could not speak for the lawmakers but expressed confidence that they would conduct a thorough and transparent evaluation.
“I believe the distinguished legislators will ask the right questions and follow due process,” he said. “This vetting tradition has always been part of appointing members of the executive, so we trust that they’ll handle it diligently.”
Oshodi emphasized that the screening does not end with the Senate. “The DSS conducts its own checks, the ICPC does the same, and even the host countries have the right to accept or reject nominees,” he noted. “It’s a comprehensive process designed to ensure only capable individuals represent Nigeria.”
He added that getting ambassadors in place is crucial for advancing Nigeria’s economic, cultural, and security interests abroad.
President Bola Tinubu recently forwarded the list of ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for screening and confirmation, marking the next stage in the multi-layered appointment process.
Comments