By Fatima Saka
The Federal Government has launched a crackdown on individuals and groups illegally parading themselves as diplomats, warning that the unauthorized use or conferment of titles such as “Ambassador” constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
The warning was issued on Friday in Abuja by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nigeria, during a media briefing addressing emerging concerns within the nation’s diplomatic space.
Ebienfa revealed that the government had uncovered multiple cases of fraudulent individuals and organizations presenting themselves as diplomats or conferring such titles on unsuspecting members of the public.
“It has come to the attention of the government that certain unauthorized persons and entities are fraudulently presenting themselves as diplomats or conferring such titles. These actions are not recognized under Nigerian law or any applicable international conventions,” he said.
He listed the offences to include the unauthorized use of titles such as Ambassador and Diplomatic Envoy by individuals who have not been duly appointed or accredited by the Federal Government. Other violations include the issuance of fake diplomatic credentials, including forged passports, identity cards, and vehicle number plates bearing national insignia.
The ministry stressed that such actions amount to impersonation and warned perpetrators to desist immediately or face prosecution.
“For the avoidance of doubt, only the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the constitutional prerogative to appoint and accredit ambassadors. No individual, group, or non-governmental organization is authorized to confer diplomatic or ambassadorial titles,” Ebienfa stated.
He clarified that ambassadorial titles cannot be obtained through financial payments or membership of any organization. While acknowledging the commercial use of the term “brand ambassador,” he noted that it carries no legal or diplomatic authority.
The government disclosed that it is collaborating with key agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, and the Vehicle Inspection Office, to identify, investigate, and prosecute offenders involved in the fraudulent practice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity, the ministry warned that such misconduct undermines the country’s international reputation.
On the delayed deployment of ambassador-designates, Ebienfa explained that the Federal Government has concluded the accreditation process for newly appointed envoys and their spouses ahead of their foreign assignments.
He announced that a three-day induction programme scheduled for April 27 to 29 would equip the envoys with essential diplomatic skills, including engagement protocols with host countries and the management of international relations.
According to him, more than 100 requests for agrément have already been received from host nations, reflecting sustained diplomatic engagement.
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“Upon completion of the induction programme, ambassador-designates who have received agrément will proceed to their respective countries of assignment to commence official duties,” he said.
The Federal Government reiterated its resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic presence globally through proper vetting, training, and deployment of its envoys.
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