The Digest:
The Presidency has rescinded the appointment of former Kebbi State Governor Usman Dakingari as Nigeria's ambassador-designate to Turkey, less than a day after the posting was announced. The initial statement on Thursday confirmed four diplomatic appointments, including Dakingari's posting to Turkey. However, a follow-up statement on Friday listed only the three other envoys, Kayode Are (USA), Ayodele Oke (France), and Amin Dalhatu (UK)—and explicitly stated that "no ambassador has been appointed to Turkey." No reason was provided for the sudden withdrawal of Dakingari's assignment.
Key Points:
- The abrupt reversal highlights potential internal vetting oversights or last-minute political reconsideration within the appointment process.
- It creates immediate diplomatic uncertainty, particularly with President Tinubu's scheduled state visit to Turkey next week.
- The withdrawal may raise questions about the criteria and finality of high-level diplomatic postings under the current administration.
- It underscores the often-opaque nature of political appointments and the fluidity of official announcements.
- The incident could impact the perception of procedural stability and coherence in Nigeria's foreign policy execution.
The Presidency is expected to either clarify the reason for the change or name a new envoy to Turkey, especially as preparations for the President's state visit proceed.
Sources: The Cable, Bayo Onanuga/X
