The secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Engr Babachir David Lawal, has thrown more light on the recent exclusion of some states from the ambassadorial list, while briefing journalists in Abuja.
He said that despite the provision of the constitution, that has made it clear that ambassadorial nominations were entirely the prerogative of the president, there were no nominees from Bayelsa, Ondo, Plateau and Ebonyi states for now because candidates from the areas failed to meet some criteria set by the federal government for career diplomats.
He noted that there are specialist areas for which only specialists are required, so even if a state makes the service length or rank criteria, those are not the only considerations, adding that even gender was considered in the nominations.
The SGF, however, pointed out that of the 47 ambassadorial nominees, 32 out of 36 states were represented, but that even though the constitution preaches federal character, it does not say that every state must be represented in any appointment, except in the case of ministers.
He made the clarification following complaints that trailed the omission of some states from the ambassadorial list sent to the Senate by President Muhammadu Buhari.
He said, “Be that as it may, I must say that we are disappointed that the National Assembly took the decision it did, but again we believe that the Senate is made up of very responsible and patriotic Nigerians and the Senate is made up of great people, including governors who have governed and known the constitution regarding separation of powers.
“So at the last count, my recollection is that out of the 47 diplomat nominees, the 32 states were represented. While the constitution preaches federal character, it does not say that every state must be represented in any appointment, except of course in the case of ministers.
“It’s not in all other appointments, so the spirit of the constitution has been fully satisfied by having 32 ambassadors out of 36, plus one. I believe that every objective analyst will agree to this.”
The SGF further explained that apart from the criteria of seniority, there are other criteria and qualifications that must be met before one is posted to go and represent Nigeria, “not just because while in the Foreign Service or the civil service, you were able to make grade level 16 or 17; quite a number of qualifications are needed.”
The Senate had summoned the SGF and the minister of Foreign Affairs to explain the omissions to its Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Lawal also assured that he would appear before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs as directed by the upper chamber.
