The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has cautioned foreign diplomatic missions in Nigeria against making unguarded comments, disparaging remarks or unsolicited lectures on democracy as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu issued the warning on Thursday during her first formal engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps since her appointment. The meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
The minister described Nigeria as Africa’s largest democracy and noted that developments in the country have regional and international implications.
She stressed the need for foreign missions to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and established diplomatic channels, particularly as the country approaches another general election.
“As the 2027 general elections draw near, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would request that missions remain guided. Recognising the fact that Nigeria is the largest democracy in Africa, and that developments in Nigeria have regional and international complications and implications, we would not look kindly upon unguarded comments, disparaging remarks, or unsolicited lectures on democracy,” the minister said.
Despite the warning, the minister assured members of the diplomatic community that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to democratic governance and the conduct of a credible election.
“The Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to democracy and to delivering an election that will be peaceful, free, fair, and credible in all ramifications,” she stated.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for stronger cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions, stressing the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to established diplomatic procedures in resolving issues.
“I want us to speak frankly, to engage constructively, and to resolve issues through dialogue, established diplomatic channels, and mutual respect,” she said.
The minister further urged foreign missions to channel official communications and requests intended for the Presidency, ministries, departments and agencies through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Her remarks come as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the Federal Government seeking closer coordination with Nigeria’s international partners while emphasising respect for the country’s sovereignty and diplomatic protocols.
