“Ibok Ete Ibas as Non-Career Ambassador: Tinubu’s Thank-You Gesture or National Oversight?”
The recent nomination of Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas, retired former Chief of Naval Staff and former Administrator of Rivers State during the imposed emergency rule, as a non-career Ambassador has once again raised eyebrows. For many Nigerians, this appointment is less about merit and national interest and more about political gestures that fail to address pressing national priorities.
Ambassadorial postings are no trivial matter. They represent Nigeria on the global stage, require diplomatic finesse, a deep understanding of international relations, and the ability to advance the country’s economic, political, and security interests. They are not rewards for loyalty, career milestones, or tokens of political expediency. Yet, since 2023, the country has struggled to fill key diplomatic positions, leaving critical embassies unrepresented and raising questions about the administration’s grasp of foreign policy imperatives.
The nomination of Ibas—whose brief tenure as Administrator of Rivers State was fraught with controversy—only intensifies these concerns. Reports of unheeded public opinion, questionable spending, and prioritizing personal networks over the needs of the people characterized his emergency rule. One must ask why a figure with such a record is being entrusted with representing Nigeria abroad. Are these appointments a form of “thank you” to those who served the administration loyally, regardless of their effectiveness? If so, it signals a troubling disregard for competence in favor of loyalty.
Further compounding the issue is the apparent neglect of meritocratic principles. Why, in a state as dynamic as Cross Rivers are there no other qualified candidates considered for such a strategic role? Does the government truly lack human resources capable of filling ambassadorial positions with professionals who can protect Nigeria’s interests internationally?
Since 2023, the delay in appointing ambassadors has left Nigeria in a diplomatic limbo, weakening the country’s voice on critical global matters, from trade negotiations to security cooperation. Nominations like that of Ibas suggest a troubling pattern: political expediency and patronage are taking precedence over national interest and diplomatic competence.
Nigeria cannot afford to treat ambassadorial positions as ceremonial rewards or a tool for political patronage. Every posting counts in an increasingly complex global arena, and the world is watching. Appointing individuals whose record raises questions about judgment, competence, and commitment to public service sends the wrong signal internationally and domestically.
In the end, the question is simple but urgent: are such nominations about strengthening Nigeria’s diplomacy, or are they gestures of gratitude to political allies whose past records may not inspire confidence? If the former, the government must act swiftly to correct course. If the latter, Nigerians deserve a clear explanation before the nation’s image and interests are further compromised.
