Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Oshodi, has defended the President’s latest ambassadorial nominations, saying the choices reflect the administration’s strategic judgment and the President’s constitutional authority.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Monday, Oshodi said political appointments to foreign missions were a common global practice, stressing that world leaders often nominate trusted associates or long-standing allies for diplomatic roles.
He cited examples from other countries, noting that former US President Donald Trump and past British administrations also appointed close associates as ambassadors. According to him, such decisions fall squarely within the prerogative of the head of state.
He clarified that the defence of the President’s discretion does not imply supporting the deployment of unqualified individuals, but emphasised that the final call belongs to the President.
Oshodi argued that Nigerians questioning the list may not fully grasp the mandate given to the President, saying the electoral victory empowers him to make decisions he believes will best serve the country.
He stated that the President selected individuals he considers suitable for advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy, economic interests and diplomatic agenda, regardless of differing personal opinions about the nominees.
Oshodi added that the true measure of the appointees’ competence would be reflected in their performance abroad, stressing that “what is best” remains subjective and varies among observers.
