Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to principled, constructive, and forward-looking diplomacy amid a period of global uncertainty.

Tuggar made the pledge yesterday while hosting members of the diplomatic corps and heads of international organisations at the Ministry’s New Year reception. He outlined three core pillars to guide Nigeria’s foreign policy in 2026: strategic autonomy, regional stability, and responsible global partnership. He emphasized that Nigeria remains steadfast in dialogue and international cooperation.

The event was also attended by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and senior ministry officials.

Highlighting achievements in economic diplomacy, Tuggar pointed to sustained investment outreach and sector-focused partnerships in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, digital connectivity, and industrial development. He cited the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit, held on the margins of ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary, as a key initiative to deepen regional trade, enhance infrastructure connectivity, and boost private sector-led growth.

On democratic governance and regional stability, the Minister emphasized Nigeria’s collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme under the Regional Partnership for Democracy, aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, promoting electoral integrity, and reinforcing inclusive governance across West Africa and the Sahel. He stressed that security in the Sahel remains a strategic priority and called for result-oriented partnerships.

Tuggar also highlighted encouraging macroeconomic indicators, citing reforms such as the unified foreign exchange regime, strengthened capital markets, and modernized fiscal frameworks as tools for positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination for long-term global investment.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and rules-based international cooperation, he sought continued support from the diplomatic community for Nigeria’s international candidacies, including the United Nations Human Rights Council, World Heritage Committee, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, and a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Tuggar also announced that ambassadors-designate will commence official duties upon presentation of copies of their Letters of Credence to the Chief of Protocol, pending formal presentation to the President and Vice President. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had submitted a 32-person ambassadorial nominees list to the National Assembly in November 2025 for screening and confirmation. Although the nominees were confirmed, their postings have yet to be assigned.

Amid global socio-economic uncertainties, most Nigerian missions abroad have operated without substantive heads since 2023, when the President recalled serving envoys. Yesterday’s reception provided an opportunity for envoys serving in Nigeria to exchange New Year greetings, renew diplomatic goodwill, and strengthen engagement with the country.

The Minister reminded guests that the Foreign Affairs Ministry remains the proper channel for communication between the diplomatic community and the federal government, emphasizing strict adherence to established diplomatic protocols.