Tinubu: Nation’s foreign policy now Nigeria-centred
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday announced a new foreign policy framework that puts Nigeria first. Tinubu, at the opening of an induction course for newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday announced a new foreign policy framework that puts Nigeria first.
Tinubu, at the opening of an induction course for newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners in Abuja yesterday, said that rapidly evolving ‘’international system’’ makes reordering of the nation’s foreign policy imperative.
He explained that the old 4D-policy anchored on ‘Democracy, Development, Demography and Diaspora’ will now be rearranged as ‘’Demography, Development, Diaspora and Democracy.’’
The old 4D- strategy prioritised democratic stability in West Africa, attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI), utilisation of the youth population for development, and engagement of the diaspora to attract over N16.1 billion in investments, encouraging diversification in sectors like agriculture, ICT(Information, Communication and Telecommunication) and Energy.
“This re-ordering has put the Nigerian people at the centre of our foreign policy agenda and is aimed at harnessing outcomes for their maximum benefit,” the President told the envoys.
President Tinubu, represented at the event by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, said the Ambassadors and High Commissioners needed to understand that their roles must be in tandem with his administration’s desire to advance Nigeria’s interests on the global stage.
He charged them to aggressively pursue foreign investments and reposition the country’s international image.
The President, according to a statement by Akume’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, added that the global system was undergoing rapid transformation driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics, economic uncertainties, technological disruptions, climate challenges and emerging security threats.
He pointed out that these developments have made the role of envoys more critical than ever, stressing the need for a modern, results-oriented approach to diplomacy.
“The international system is evolving rapidly. We must be prepared to meet these challenges by focusing on how best to protect and promote Nigeria’s national interest,” Tinubu said.
He also enjoined the envoys to combine traditional diplomatic methods with digital engagement, public diplomacy and strategic communication while projecting the achievements of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Emphasising the importance of telling Nigeria’s story compellingly and creditably, he called on the diplomats to be proactive and innovative in fostering partnerships, promoting trade and attracting foreign direct investment and technology into the country.
He added that safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora must remain a top priority for all missions.
Tinubu further stressed the need for professionalism, integrity and patriotism in the conduct of diplomatic duties, reminding the envoys that they serve not only as government representatives but as custodians of Nigeria’s image abroad.
He underscored the importance of accountability, urging missions to be result-driven, prudent in resource management and guided by clear, measurable goals that contribute to economic growth and national development.
The President also encouraged the participants to fully engage in the induction programme, noting that it was designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills required for effective diplomatic service in a rapidly changing world.
He commended the National Assembly for the swift confirmation of the nominees and urged the envoys to justify the confidence reposed in them.
“You have a special responsibility in helping to reposition Nigeria in global affairs. The world is watching,” said the President.
