Why I Have Not Resumed as Ambassador to Mexico — Reno Omokri

Why I Have Not Resumed as Ambassador to Mexico — Reno Omokri

Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has dismissed reports suggesting that the Mexican government rejected his diplomatic appointment, insisting that the delay in his resumption is purely administrative and linked to Mexico’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the former presidential aide described claims of his rejection as politically motivated narratives designed to misrepresent the realities of diplomatic engagements between nations.

According to Omokri, Mexico is currently focused on its responsibilities as one of the co-hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside the United States and Canada, a development he said has slowed several routine government processes, including diplomatic protocols involving newly appointed foreign ambassadors.

“Mexico has not rejected me. Not at all. You should understand that Mexico is currently hosting the World Cup alongside the United States of America, and all their focus is on that,” Omokri said during the interview.

The ambassador-designate explained that his situation is not unique, noting that several Nigerian envoys appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are yet to resume their assignments abroad because they are still awaiting the completion of diplomatic formalities required by their host countries.

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“Most of us ambassadors have not resumed. So, I’m not the only one. A lot of my colleagues are in my situation, but it’s okay. These things happen,” he stated.

Omokri maintained that reports alleging his rejection by Mexico were being amplified by political opponents and lacked any official basis.

“The opposition will always say things like I have been rejected. We do not work on the basis of the opposition. We work on the basis of reality,” he added.

The controversy surrounding his appointment gained traction after reports emerged that some diaspora groups had allegedly petitioned Mexican authorities to reject his nomination, citing concerns over his past political positions and public comments. However, there has been no official communication from the Mexican government indicating that Omokri’s appointment has been rejected.

Under international diplomatic practice, an ambassador-designate cannot formally assume office until the receiving country grants agrément, a diplomatic approval that signifies acceptance of the envoy. The process is standard across the world and can take weeks or months depending on the host country’s internal procedures and priorities.

Omokri was among the 65 ambassadors-designate whose postings were approved by President Tinubu as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic representation across the globe. His nomination attracted significant public attention due to his political evolution from being a vocal critic of Tinubu to becoming one of the administration’s prominent supporters.

The former presidential aide has repeatedly defended his decision to serve in the administration, stating that national service should transcend political differences.

During the interview, Omokri also took a swipe at opposition politicians, arguing that political instability within opposition ranks weakens their chances against the ruling government.

“How can you say a man who has been in three political parties in six months is going to defeat a president who has been stable politically since 1989?” he asked.

Until the necessary diplomatic procedures are concluded and his credentials are formally accepted, Omokri remains Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico and is expected to assume office once the host country completes the required approval process.

Why I Have Not Resumed as Ambassador to Mexico — Reno Omokri