(Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. photo by vangaurd news)
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s recently appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, was elevated by President Bola Tinubu and formally began her duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja on Friday.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson, stated in a statement that the Federal Government’s confidence in the minister’s leadership and diplomatic background is reflected in her nomination.
Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary, spoke at the reception, congratulating the minister on her appointment and describing her promotion as a testament to her commitment and expertise in serving the nation.
He expressed faith in her abilities to improve Nigeria’s international relations and expand its diplomatic ties with other nations.
Additionally, Ahmed promised the minister that the ministry will fully assist and cooperate in carrying out the administration’s foreign policy aims.
He claims that the ministry is still dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s interests, safeguarding Nigerians living overseas, luring in foreign capital, and bolstering bilateral and multilateral ties.
In her speech, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed gratitude to the ministry’s workforce and management for the warm welcome she received.
She reiterated her dedication to promoting Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and consolidating the accomplishments already noted under President Tinubu’s government.
Additionally, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to carrying out Nigeria’s 4D Foreign Policy agenda, which emphasizes Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography.
In order to confront new global issues and safeguard Nigeria’s interests abroad, she emphasized the significance of citizen diplomacy, strategic autonomy, professionalism, and institutional effectiveness.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also praised ministry officers and employees for their commitment and selflessness in serving the nation.
In order to guarantee efficient service delivery and the safety of Nigerians living overseas, she promised to put employee welfare first and collaborate closely with the ministry’s administration and agencies.
The leaders of the ministry’s agencies and senior management personnel, led by Ambassador Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, welcomed her with open arms.
Representatives from the Institute for Peace, the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa, and other organizations were present to greet the minister Conflict Resolution, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, the Technical Aid Corps and the Foreign Service Academy.
