By Clement John
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ike Nwachukwu, has called for the establishment of a Foreign Service Commission to strengthen professionalism and institutional stability in Nigeria’s diplomatic system.
Nwachukwu made the call in Abuja during the public presentation of a memoir titled “Fragments of Time: My Foreign Service Years” authored by Ambassador Eineje Onobu, where diplomats, policymakers and scholars gathered to reflect on Nigeria’s foreign policy evolution.
Chairing the event, Nwachukwu expressed concern over the growing trend of appointing non-career ambassadors, warning that it undermines morale and limits career progression within the foreign service.
“We must establish a Foreign Service Commission to institutionalise best practices, protect the integrity of the service, and ensure that career diplomats are given a fair opportunity to grow,” he said.
He stressed that strengthening institutional structures would enhance continuity in foreign policy execution and improve Nigeria’s global standing.
“There has to be a deliberate effort to restore balance retain institutional memory, reward professionalism, and ensure continuity in policy execution,” he added.
The former minister criticised what he described as the increasing preference for political appointees over career diplomats, noting that merit and experience are often sidelined.
“We have a situation where political considerations override competence. That is not sustainable for a serious country,” he said.
Nwachukwu further advocated a return to the traditional 80–20 ratio in ambassadorial appointments to encourage professionalism and reward experience.
Also speaking, another former Foreign Affairs Minister, Sule Lamido, emphasised national identity and inclusive governance as critical to effective diplomacy.
Lamido highlighted the importance of national pride and cultural identity in shaping Nigeria’s engagement with the global community.
“Nigeria must engage the world on the basis of equality. We may not be the richest country, but we must carry ourselves with honour, integrity and character,” he said.
He also reflected on his time in office, noting the initial disconnect between political leadership and career technocrats, and how he bridged the gap by exposing officials to grassroots realities.
Earlier, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Ambassador Godknows Igali, underscored the importance of documentation in preserving Nigeria’s diplomatic history, describing the memoir as a significant contribution to the country’s foreign policy record.
“This is not just a memoir; it is a chronicle of Nigeria’s diplomacy,” he said, urging senior diplomats to document their experiences for future generations.
Reviewing the book, former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, said the publication offers insights into Nigeria’s governance and reform needs, describing it as essential reading for understanding the country’s institutional history.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s foreign policy framework.
Represented by his Senior Technical Adviser, Babatunde Bernard, Akume said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on economic diplomacy, regional stability and strategic international partnerships.
“Today’s event is not merely a book presentation. It is a celebration of service, diplomacy, institutional memory and commitment to nation-building,” he said.
The event drew key stakeholders in Nigeria’s diplomatic community, amid renewed calls for reforms to enhance the country’s global relevance and effectiveness in international relations.
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