The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to repositioning Nigeria's foreign service through aggressive institutional reforms, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and a citizen-centered foreign policy.
Speaking on Monday, July 7, 2026, during a meeting in Abuja with a delegation from the Association of Foreign Relations Professionals of Nigeria (AFRPN) led by its 1st Vice President, Ambassador Sani Saulawa Bala, the Minister described the ministry as the professional home for both serving and retired diplomats.
He emphasized that the vast wealth of experience within the association is a vital national asset that must be harnessed to strengthen the country's diplomatic frameworks.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye explained that Nigeria’s foreign policy has been systematically refocused to ensure it delivers tangible benefits directly to its citizens, specifically through investment promotion, economic growth, job creation, poverty reduction, national security, and the robust protection of Nigerians abroad.
To support this vision, the ministry is implementing internal reforms aimed at restoring strict professionalism, transparency, and administrative efficiency.
These initiatives include revitalizing internal policy planning structures, institutional committees, rigorous training programs, routine inspection mechanisms, and entirely merit-based administrative processes.
Recognizing that adequate funding remains a challenge, the Minister disclosed that the ministry is exploring innovative funding mechanisms and engaging with relevant government institutions to improve resource mobilization.
He identified critical areas for immediate collaboration with the AFRPN, including evidence-based policy research, strategic advisory services, mentorship, and public advocacy to help the general public better understand the role of diplomacy in national development.
?Responding on behalf of the association, Ambassador Sani Bala congratulated the Minister on his appointment and expressed full confidence in his leadership.
He pledged the AFRPN’s readiness to actively support the ongoing reform agenda through specialized diplomatic training, policy dialogues, and capacity-building initiatives.
During the interactive session, members of the delegation also advocated for institutionalized mentorship involving retired diplomats, refined recruitment processes, increased visibility for Nigeria's overseas missions, and the establishment of a dedicated Foreign Service Commission.
Closing the meeting, Ambassador Enikanolaiye assured the delegation that their recommendations would receive careful consideration, solidifying a joint commitment to building a modern, results-oriented diplomatic service.
