Presidency Withdraws Ex-Governor Dakingari’s Appointment as Turkey Ambassador

Presidency Withdraws Ex-Governor Dakingari’s Appointment as Turkey Ambassador

Abuja, Nigeria — The Presidency has officially withdrawn the appointment of former Kebbi State Governor Usman Isa Dakingari as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Turkey, just hours after the initial announcement. The decision comes amid ongoing efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to finalise key diplomatic postings to major global capitals.

The reversal was confirmed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The revised ambassadorial list now includes Colonel Lateef Kayode Are (rtd) to the United States, Ambassador Ayodele Oke to France, and Ambassador Amin Dalhatu to the United Kingdom, with no representative yet named for Turkey.

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The sudden withdrawal has sparked public speculation about a possible vetting review or administrative oversight, particularly as President Tinubu prepares for a state visit to Turkey next week, highlighting the strategic importance of Ankara in Nigeria’s foreign policy agenda.

Analysts say the change underscores the administration’s cautious approach to diplomatic appointments, ensuring that nominees meet both political balance and professional standards before assuming key international roles. Nigeria’s ambassadorial postings are part of a broader foreign policy reset, aimed at strengthening relations with strategic partners in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

Presidency Withdraws Ex-Governor Dakingari’s Appointment as Turkey Ambassador