Federal Government has warned Nigerians against falsely presenting themselves as ambassadors, declaring that offenders will be prosecuted for impersonation and related offences.
The spokesperson for the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, gave the warning on Friday in Abuja, describing the trend as illegal and damaging to Nigeria’s international reputation.
Ebienfa stressed that ambassadorial titles are not for sale and can only be conferred by the President.
“Ambassadorial titles are not conferred with the payment of money or subscription to membership in non-governmental organisations,” he said.
He expressed concern over reports that some individuals and organisations were allegedly selling fake ambassadorial titles, promising unsuspecting Nigerians diplomatic privileges such as passports, special airport access and immunity abroad.
According to him, some offenders have gone further to present themselves to foreign missions and international organisations as official representatives of Nigeria, thereby causing embarrassment to the country.
The ministry also confirmed cases involving fake diplomatic passports, identity cards and cloned diplomatic vehicle number plates linked to such fraudulent activities.
Ebienfa said the government was working with relevant security agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigeria Police Force, to investigate and prosecute those involved.
He clarified that while individuals may serve as brand ambassadors for private organisations, such roles do not confer any legal authority to use the title “Ambassador” in an official or diplomatic capacity.
“You can be a brand ambassador for a company, but you cannot attach the title of ambassador to your name in a way that suggests diplomatic authority,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ebienfa disclosed that the government was set to deploy a new batch of ambassadors following diplomatic clearances from host countries.
He said more than 25 countries had already granted agrément for Nigeria’s ambassador-designates, adding that a three-day induction programme had been scheduled for April 27 to April 29 ahead of their deployment.
He noted that the envoys would be posted to their respective missions immediately after the exercise.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity, warning that any act capable of bringing the country into disrepute would not be tolerated.
