The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has called on Nigeria’s ambassadors and high commissioners-designate to ECOWAS member states to prioritize security cooperation with their host countries to enhance regional stability.
She made this appeal during a one-day strategic retreat organized by the ministry for Nigeria’s envoys to West African countries on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
The minister also urged the envoys to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional leader and the anchor for West African integration and security.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu directed them to collaborate closely with host authorities to improve intelligence sharing and to bolster cross-border security mechanisms to combat smuggling and trafficking. She emphasized that a secure West Africa is vital for Nigeria’s own security.
“In addition, you must prioritize security cooperation. No nation can tackle current security threats alone,” she stated.
She further urged the envoys to actively promote citizen diplomacy, emphasizing that protecting Nigerian citizens’ rights and welfare is non-negotiable.
“Your embassies must become safe havens and efficient service centers. Engage the Nigerian diaspora as partners in development, not just as subjects of consular care.
“You carry the weight of our nation’s regional responsibility. Nigeria’s greatness should be reflected in the quality of your representation,” she added.
The minister explained that this approach aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy framework, which prioritizes national interest within an expanding geographical scope.
She noted that West Africa is Nigeria’s primary focus—forming the critical first concentric circle of its foreign policy—making regional integration and security top priorities.
“Nigeria’s commitment to West Africa is absolute and unwavering. The sub-region is the primary arena for our foreign policy engagement.
“Your postings are strategic deployments on the frontline of our national interest. You are the faces of Nigeria’s renewed leadership in the region,” she emphasized.
She highlighted the multifaceted challenges facing Nigeria’s neighbors, including threats to democratic governance and unconstitutional changes of government, which strain regional cohesion.
“The brotherhood that once characterized ECOWAS must be restored, and the rejection of unconstitutional changes of government must be upheld,” she urged.
The minister called for a focus on promoting democratic stability and strengthening institutions, rule of law, human rights, and good governance.
“You must pursue economic diplomacy vigorously,” she stressed.
She pointed out that regional integration depends on robust intra-African trade and encouraged them to eliminate non-tariff barriers facing Nigerian businesses.
“Promote partnerships in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and digital technology.
“Bring West African investments home and showcase Nigerian innovation in the region,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu concluded.
