President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down ahead of an anticipated political move toward the 2027 elections.
In a related development, the President nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation.
The appointments were announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, who said the changes are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic posture and aligning foreign policy with the administration’s economic agenda.
“These adjustments are part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships,” the statement noted.
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Odumegwu-Ojukwu, a seasoned diplomat and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, is expected to lead Nigeria’s external relations at a time when the administration is prioritizing economic diplomacy, regional stability, and expanded international cooperation.
The presidency highlighted her extensive experience in international affairs, describing her as bringing “decades of diplomatic expertise and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s engagement with the global community.”
Enikanolaiye, a career diplomat and former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, has served in key postings across Addis Ababa, London, Ottawa, Belgrade, and New Delhi.
His nomination, according to the statement, is intended to reinforce continuity within Nigeria’s foreign service and support evolving foreign policy objectives.
President Tinubu congratulated both appointees and urged them to prioritize national interest, deepen economic diplomacy, and improve the welfare of Nigerians abroad.
