Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu Assumes Office as Foreign Affairs Minister

Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, on Friday officially resumed duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja following her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

A statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the appointment reflects the Federal Government’s confidence in Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s leadership capacity and diplomatic experience.

During the handover ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dunoma Ahmed, congratulated the minister and described her elevation as a recognition of her dedication and professionalism in national service.

Ahmed expressed optimism that the new minister would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and expand strategic partnerships with countries around the world. He also assured her of the ministry’s support in advancing the administration’s foreign policy objectives.

According to him, the ministry remains focused on promoting Nigeria’s national interests, protecting citizens abroad, attracting foreign investment and enhancing bilateral and multilateral relations.

In her remarks, Odumegwu-Ojukwu appreciated the management and staff of the ministry for the warm reception and pledged to build on the achievements of the current administration.

She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the 4D Foreign Policy agenda centred on Democracy, Development, Diaspora and Demography.

The minister stressed the need for citizen-focused diplomacy, professionalism, institutional efficiency and strategic autonomy in addressing global challenges and safeguarding Nigeria’s interests internationally.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also commended officials of the ministry for their dedication and sacrifices in service to the nation, promising to prioritise staff welfare and collaborate closely with agencies under the ministry to improve service delivery and ensure the protection of Nigerians abroad.

She was received by senior management staff led by Ambassador Ahmed, alongside heads of agencies under the ministry, including representatives of the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, the Technical Aid Corps and the Foreign Service Academy.