Oke advocated for alternative funding models, such as allowing foreign missions to acquire properties using mortgages or leasing vehicles, as practiced in many host countries.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Federal Government has earmarked N53 billion for the renovation and improvement of 103 foreign missions, covering various needs such as chancery refurbishments, staff quarters, ambassadors’ residences, office furniture, and official vehicles, among others.
Breakdown of Allocations
Some of the major allocations include:
- Abidjan: N554 million
- Banjul: N812 million
- Brazzaville: N555 million
- Port of Spain: N558 million
- Caracas: N576 million
- Kingston: N624 million
- Libreville: N567 million
- Buenos Aires: N409 million
- Niamey: N899 million
Despite these allocations, financial constraints remain significant. Sources estimate that nearly $1 billion is required to clear arrears and adequately fund Nigeria’s 109 missions worldwide, including 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates.
Challenges in Funding and Operations
President Bola Tinubu’s administration has been reassessing Nigeria’s foreign policy since taking office, recalling 83 ambassadors in September 2023. However, the appointment of new envoys has been delayed due to financial constraints. Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar emphasized the importance of adequate funding to ensure effective mission operations.
“There is no point sending out ambassadors if you do not have the funds for them to travel and run their missions effectively. Mr. President is working on it, and it will be done in due course,” Tuggar stated during a ministerial briefing.
Senior officials revealed that most embassies are in poor condition, with some owing rent and others lacking functional offices. Additionally, Foreign Service officers face months of unpaid allowances. Efforts to address these issues, including capital expenditures for renovations and equipment, are ongoing.
Parliamentary Concerns Over Budget Allocation
The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs has summoned Budget and National Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Budget Office DG Tanimu Yakubu, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Dunoma Ahmed to address what it described as inadequate allocations in the 2025 budget proposal.
Committee Chairman Oluwole Oke noted that the N287 billion allocated for recurrent expenditures in 2025 was insufficient. He argued that the ministry needs at least N500 billion annually to meet operational needs, including subscriptions to international organizations and allowances for Foreign Service officers.
“We cannot project a positive global image for Nigeria if our foreign missions are not adequately funded,” Oke said.
Oke advocated for alternative funding models, such as allowing foreign missions to acquire properties using mortgages or leasing vehicles, as practiced in many host countries. He suggested including provisions in the Finance Bill to enable such measures, which could reduce costs and address long-term operational challenges.
“We need to address issues like dilapidated properties in New York, Washington, Atlanta, Paris, and other key locations. A mortgage or leasing model can provide a lasting solution,” Oke added.
Oke also criticized the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for poor accountability and operational inefficiencies, which he said exacerbate the challenges facing foreign missions. He emphasized the need for transparency and strategic reforms to improve the ministry’s operations and enhance Nigeria’s global image.
The committee has scheduled a meeting with the officials for January 14, 2025, to deliberate further on the budgetary challenges and proposed solutions.
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