Rescue Movement Raises Alarm Over Ambassadorial Nominees …Urges Senate to Reject Politically Motivated Appointments

The Rescue Movement for New Nigeria has expressed strong concern over the recently released list of ambassadorial nominees submitted by the Federal Government, describing it as deeply troubling and unreflective of Nigeria’s commitment to professionalism and global credibility.

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the National Secretary, Oluwarotimi Daniels, the Movement said the nomination process – rather than showcasing competence and integrity – has been overtaken by political patronage, recycling individuals who lack the diplomatic expertise, credibility, or technical capacity required for such critical national roles.

According to the statement, what should have been an opportunity to project Nigeria’s best before the international community has instead become another example of governance driven by political compensation rather than merit. “This troubling culture of rewarding loyalists at the expense of capable foreign-service professionals continues to erode public trust and weaken our diplomatic representation,” the group noted.

The Rescue Movement also warned that some of the nominees come with public records that cast doubt on their integrity, a development it said risks damaging Nigeria’s image abroad.

“Ambassadors are the nation’s face and voice. Sending individuals with questionable reputations to represent over 200 million citizens sends the wrong message to the world,” the statement added.

The group further criticized the timing and spirit of the nominations, arguing that the government appears fixated on political appeasement rather than addressing the country’s more pressing crises particularly the rising wave of kidnappings, insecurity, and governance failures. It said the same pattern of prioritizing loyalty over competence is responsible for Nigeria’s recurring institutional weaknesses.

Calling on the Senate to rise to its constitutional duty, the Rescue Movement urged lawmakers to thoroughly scrutinize the list and reject nominees who lack the experience, professionalism, or moral standing to represent Nigeria globally.

“This oversight function is not ceremonial. It is a safeguard to protect Nigeria’s dignity and foreign relations,” the group emphasized.

The statement concluded with a call for a transparent and merit-based selection process, noting that Nigeria has no shortage of qualified career diplomats, technocrats, academics, and professionals capable of strengthening the nation’s global partnerships.

“Nigeria cannot continue on a path where political rewards overshadow competence,” the group said. “Leadership must be earned. Public office must reflect integrity. And Nigeria must be represented by individuals who embody its highest values. Nigeria deserves better.”