Tinubu Nominates Ibas, Dambazau and 63 Others as Ambassadors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the nomination of former Chief of Naval Staff Ibas and former head of the Department of Security (DSS) Dambazau among the 65 individuals selected to serve as Nigeria’s next ambassadors. These new appointments mark one of the largest diplomatic reshuffles in recent years and signal an effort to bolster Nigeria’s foreign service with experienced security officials and government veterans.

Ibas and Dambazau, who have held senior positions in national security and defense, are expected to bring international strategic vision to Nigeria’s missions abroad. The full list of 65 nominees reflects a mix of career diplomats, seasoned bureaucrats, and civil service veterans, highlighting President Tinubu’s intention to combine experience, diversity, and competence in Nigeria’s overseas representation.

The administration stated that the move aims to reposition Nigeria in diplomacy, strengthen international relations, and better promote the country’s interests on the international stage. The new ambassadors will now await Senate confirmation before being assigned to their respective missions.

As Nigeria prepares to present these candidates, observers say the reshuffle underscores the renewed focus on foreign policy, international partnerships, and national image diplomacy under Tinubu’s leadership.