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Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed delays were financial: “There is no point sending out ambassadors if you do not have the funds.”
The Federal Government has begun screening potential ambassadors, including ex-Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, and former Lagos Deputy Governor, Femi Pedro, Sunday PUNCH has learnt.
A presidency official revealed, “They’re already doing security checks with DSS… Only those who have been cleared are announced.” Vetting is ongoing at DSS offices closest to nominees, who have been asked to submit educational and work history.
The process, delayed since September 2023, faced funding challenges, with embassy refurbishments and operational costs reportedly exceeding $1bn.
One source said, “Most embassies are rundown… some don’t even have power and running water.”
Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed delays were financial: “There is no point sending out ambassadors if you do not have the funds.”
While Fani-Kayode and Pedro are being vetted, presidential sources denied the inclusion of Reno Omokri. The ambassadorial list, combining career and political nominees, is expected before April ends.
Two nominees contacted by Sunday PUNCH declined to comment.