Tinubu Appoints Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of Foreign Affairs

Tinubu Appoints Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of Foreign Affairs

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs following the resignation of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who reportedly stepped down to pursue political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The appointment places Ojukwu in charge of Nigeria’s external relations, diplomatic engagements, and international partnerships at a time the administration is intensifying efforts to reposition the country’s global image and strengthen economic diplomacy.

Until her latest appointment, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, where she was involved in Nigeria’s diplomatic outreach and regional engagement programmes.

Her elevation to the substantive ministerial role is seen as a continuation of her work within the foreign affairs ministry and a move to ensure continuity in Nigeria’s diplomatic policy direction.

In a related development, President Tinubu also nominated Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, pending confirmation by the Senate.

READ ALSO:

• Ronaldo Fires Al Nassr to Crucial Win Over Al Ahli
• How Nigerian Army Uncovered Alleged Plot to Overthrow Tinubu
• FG Declares Friday Public Holiday for 2026 Workers’ Day Celebration
• Trump Triggers Global Reactions After Calling Strait of Hormuz ‘Strait of Trump’

Enikanolaiye, who hails from Kogi State, previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations. He is a career diplomat with over 30 years of experience in Nigeria’s foreign service.

His extensive diplomatic background includes serving as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as postings in several Nigerian missions abroad, including Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.

The Presidency said the appointments are part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture, improve coordination in international engagements, and expand economic and strategic partnerships across key global regions.

President Tinubu congratulated both appointees and urged them to prioritise national interest, enhance economic diplomacy, support regional stability, and ensure the protection of Nigerians in the diaspora.

He further emphasised the need for a more proactive foreign policy approach that aligns with Nigeria’s economic growth agenda and global competitiveness objectives.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains central to Nigeria’s international relations, overseeing bilateral and multilateral engagements, consular services, and diplomatic missions worldwide.

Political analysts say the reshuffle signals a renewed focus by the Tinubu administration on strengthening diplomatic leadership and expanding Nigeria’s influence in global affairs.

Tinubu Appoints Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of Foreign Affairs