By George Omagbemi
The Federal Government has cautioned foreign diplomatic missions in Nigeria against making unguarded or disparaging comments, or giving what it described as “unsolicited lectures on democracy,” as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, issued the warning on Thursday, September 17, 2026, during her first formal engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps since assuming office.
Speaking in Abuja, the minister said Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest democracy meant developments in the country could have regional and international implications. She therefore urged foreign missions to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and use established diplomatic channels when raising concerns.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was committed to conducting an election that would be peaceful, free, fair and credible.
She called for stronger cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions, stressing dialogue, mutual respect and proper coordination. She also asked missions to route official communications to the Presidency, ministries, departments and agencies through the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
Beyond the 2027 election, the minister outlined Nigeria’s “Four Ds” foreign-policy framework: Demography, Development, Democracy and Diaspora. She said the government would pursue stronger partnerships in trade, investment, security, education, health and technology and international cooperation.
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