FG to diplomatic missions: Stop bypassing protocols

The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a stern warning to foreign diplomatic missions operating within the country, urging them to cease bypassing established diplomatic channels. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, delivered this message in Abuja during a courtesy visit from the Philippines Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole J. Mellejor.

Enikanolaiye commended the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members, including the Philippines, for consistently engaging Nigeria through recognized diplomatic avenues. He noted that this adherence to protocol strengthens bilateral relations. However, he expressed significant concern over a growing trend among some diplomatic missions to circumvent official procedures, a practice the government will no longer tolerate.

"Our job is to make your work easy. I am pleased that you respect our diplomatic protocols. You did not take advantage of any of our lapses, as some have been inclined to do," the minister stated, implicitly contrasting the Philippines' approach with others. He announced plans to convene a meeting with the Diplomatic Corps to address these issues directly, emphasizing that "bypassing diplomatic channels will no longer be welcome."

“

Our job is to make your work easy. I am pleased that you respect our diplomatic protocols. You did not take advantage of any of our lapses, as some have been inclined to do.

Reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to fostering stronger ties, particularly with the Philippines and other ASEAN nations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's "Renewed Hope Agenda," Enikanolaiye highlighted Nigeria's economic trajectory. He invited partnerships in key sectors like agriculture, commerce, manufacturing, and oil and gas. The minister also mentioned Nigeria's existing visa-waiver agreements with approximately 20 countries, aimed at facilitating official engagements, and urged the Philippines to expedite a similar agreement.

The construction of a permanent Philippine embassy in Abuja was welcomed as a sign of confidence in Nigeria-Philippines relations, which are celebrating their 65th anniversary this year. Enikanolaiye expressed optimism for future high-level exchanges and stressed Nigeria's pursuit of stronger bilateral relations through exchange programs and Joint Commissions. He also called for the proper and dignified treatment of Nigerians visiting the Philippines.

“

Going forward, bypassing diplomatic channels will no longer be welcome.