In a fresh political development from Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has re-nominated former Kebbi State Governor Alhaji Usman Isa Dakingari for confirmation as a non-career ambassador by the Nigerian Senate, reigniting discussion over the controversial appointment.
The renewed request was formally presented on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, barely two weeks after Dakingari’s initial nomination was withdrawn following public scrutiny.
In a letter to the upper chamber, President Tinubu cited constitutional provisions guiding ambassadorial appointments and urged lawmakers to expedite consideration of the nomination. “I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate, the appointment of Usman Dakingari as non-career ambassador,” the letter reportedly stated, also conveying the President’s assurances of high regard to the Senate leadership.
Following the reading, Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, directing the committee to carry out a screening exercise and report back within one week.
This latest action comes after controversy erupted in January when the presidency included Dakingari’s name among ambassadorial postings — reportedly to Turkey — only to withdraw it the same day amid questions about its inclusion on an earlier list cleared by the Senate.
Political analysts say the re-submission reflects the administration’s intent to fill long-vacant diplomatic seats, part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s global representation after prolonged ambassadorial vacancies. However, some observers argue the nomination could face renewed debate during the Senate review process.
The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs is expected to commence Dakingari’s screening soon, with its report anticipated to shape the final decision on his confirmation.
