THE Nigeria’s Federal Government has proposed N53bn to renovate 103 foreign missions, this newspaper reports.
The funds will cover various needs, including renovations of chanceries, staff quarters, ambassadors’ residences, purchase of office furniture, and official vehicles, among others.
Allocations include N554m for the foreign mission in Abidjan; N812m for Banjul; N555m for Brazzaville; N558m for Port of Spain; N576m for Caracas; N624m for Kingston; N567m for Libreville; N409m for Buenos Aires, N899m for Niamey, among others.
This newspaper had reported that despite the rising allocation to the missions, significant financial challenges remain, with sources estimating that almost $1bn was required to clear arrears and fully fund the nation’s 109 missions worldwide.
On taking office, President Bola Tinubu reassessed Nigeria’s foreign policy and initiated a recall of 83 ambassadors in September 2023.
However, the process of appointing new envoys has faced delays due to financial shortfalls.
The foreign affairs minister confirmed this, citing insufficient funding for essential embassy operations and ambassadorial support.
