Tinubu Re-nominates Former Kebbi Governor Usman Dakingari for Ambassadorial Appointment

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has re-nominated former Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Usman Dakingari, for appointment as a non-career ambassador, barely two weeks after his earlier nomination was withdrawn from consideration by the Senate.

The renewed nomination was formally communicated to the upper legislative chamber in a letter read during plenary on Tuesday by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. According to the letter, the appointment was made in accordance with the provisions of Section 171(1), (2)(c), and (4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers the President to appoint ambassadors and other diplomatic representatives, subject to Senate confirmation.

Dakingari’s initial nomination had generated significant public and legislative debate after his name appeared on a list of ambassadorial nominees reportedly designated for postings to strategic countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. The development sparked controversy within political and diplomatic circles, with concerns raised over the suitability of political appointees for sensitive diplomatic missions traditionally occupied by career diplomats. Amid the backlash, the Presidency withdrew his name from the earlier list.

The fresh submission now reopens legislative consideration of Dakingari’s appointment, bringing the matter back before the Senate for deliberation. Following the reading of the President’s letter, Senate President Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for screening. He directed the committee to complete its review and submit a report to the Senate within one week.

During deliberations on the floor of the Senate, lawmakers clarified that despite the wording of the presidential communication, the nomination was understood to be for a non-career ambassadorial role. Senators noted that Dakingari’s background as a former governor and political office holder aligned more closely with a political or non-career diplomatic appointment rather than a professional foreign service posting.

Several senators emphasised that the distinction was important, as Nigeria’s diplomatic service traditionally differentiates between career diplomats and political appointees, each with different roles, expectations, and pathways to appointment. On this basis, lawmakers indicated that the screening process would proceed under the framework applicable to non-career ambassadors.

Dakingari served as governor of Kebbi State between 2007 and 2015 and has remained an influential political figure within the state and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). His re-nomination is seen by observers as part of ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to fill long-vacant diplomatic positions and strengthen Nigeria’s foreign representation.

The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs is expected to conduct its screening promptly and report back to the chamber within the stipulated timeframe, after which the Senate will decide whether to confirm the nomination.

Until then, the appointment remains subject to legislative approval, in line with constitutional requirements.