Esther Salifu
The Federal Government has assured that it is taking decisive steps to resolve the financial challenges confronting Nigerian diplomatic and consular missions abroad, which have led to delayed staff salaries, unpaid rents, and unsettled obligations to service providers.
The clarification was contained in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Monday, September 1, 2025, in Abuja.
The ministry admitted that the Missions have faced significant operational strain due to budgetary shortfalls, but stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to restoring stability.
Explaining the situation, the statement noted that Nigeria’s diplomatic posts were not exempt from the realities of the domestic economy. “The financial situation in our Missions stems from budgetary limitations over the years, resulting in shortfalls in allocations, which in turn have significantly impacted the optimal functioning of many of our Missions abroad,” the statement read
He highlighted that government had already begun to intervene. “One remedial measure was the approval and release of special intervention funds to cushion the effects of the hardship faced by some of the Missions,” the statement added.
According to Ebienfa, a committee has been established to scrutinise debts owed by Missions to ensure fairness and accountability.
“Based on responses from Missions and documentary evidence provided, more than 80 per cent of the available funds have been cleared for payments, with priority given to service providers, salaries of locally recruited staff and arrears of claims due to officers,” he explained.
The Ministry also acknowledged challenges arising from exchange rate harmonisation and the country’s new monetary policy. “To mitigate its impact, the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has graciously approved the settlement of the shortfall. Consequently, the first tranche has already been remitted to all Missions, with some having confirmed receipt,” the spokesperson disclosed.
Further steps are also being taken to strengthen financial management.
“The Ministry is working diligently to develop a sustainable financial model for funding our Missions abroad, including exploring innovative solutions and efficiency measures to ensure long-term operational stability”.
He commended Nigerian diplomats for their resilience despite difficult conditions. “The Ministry recognises the resilience and dedication of its diplomatic staff who continue to discharge their duties with commendable patriotism under these difficult circumstances,” he said.
The statement concluded with reassurance to Nigerians worldwide.
“We are confident that the current challenges are temporary and will be overcome through the concerted efforts of this administration,” Ebienfa affirmed.
