By Atoyebi Nike
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has renewed concerns over its persistent funding challenges, prompting a visit by the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, to the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation on Monday.
Ahmed met with the Accountant-General, Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, to push for steady financing and quicker disbursement of the ministry’s approved budget. Delays have repeatedly hit Nigeria’s missions abroad, leading to unpaid bills and disruptions in operations.
A statement issued on Tuesday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the discussion centred on improving the ministry’s financial flow, especially the timely release of funds to embassies and the headquarters. Both offices also reviewed other areas of mutual concern. No specific commitments were announced.
The meeting came as the government moves to restore leadership across its foreign missions. After nearly two years without substantive heads of mission, President Bola Tinubu has forwarded multiple batches of ambassadorial nominees to the Senate beginning with three nominees on November 26 and expanding the list to 65 by December 4.
The nominees include former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu; retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas; former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; and former Minister Femi Fani-Kayode.
