President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive to recall all of Nigeria’s ambassadors, both career and non-career, according to a statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar.
The announcement came after reports of the recall of Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Ishola.
Ambassador Tuggar’s letter, dated August 31, 2023, conveyed the termination of Ambassador Ishola’s tenure as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the United Kingdom.
The letter urged Ambassador Ishola to commence winding down his responsibilities, take formal leave of the host government within 60 days, and return to Nigeria by October 31, 2023, at the latest.
In response to inquiries regarding the recall letter sent to Ambassador Ishola, Ambassador Tuggar clarified, “Ambassadors, as representatives of the country, serve at the behest of the President, and it’s his prerogative to send or recall them from any country.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation for Ambassador Ishola’s service, stating, “While looking forward to welcoming you in Abuja on your return, please allow me to join Mr. President in thanking Your Excellency for your exemplary leadership and service to Nigeria. I wish you God’s continued guidance in your future endeavors.”
