JUST IN: Ikpeazu, Ugwuanyi, Shehu Sani, Reno Omokri Among Nominees for Ambassadorial Appointments

Former governors Okezie Ikpeazu and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, along with ex-senator Shehu Sani and political commentator Reno Omokri, have been named in a newly released list of nominees for ambassadorial appointments by the Nigerian government. The list, which surfaced on Monday, April 7, 2025, has sparked nationwide interest due to the political significance and diversity of the individuals involved.

The names are part of a broader nomination for non-career ambassadorial postings, which are typically awarded to individuals outside of the foreign service but deemed fit to represent Nigeria’s interests abroad. The nominations are expected to be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation in the coming days, in line with constitutional requirements.

Okezie Ikpeazu served as the governor of Abia State between 2015 and 2023 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). During his tenure, he was known for his infrastructural development efforts, particularly in the commercial city of Aba. Despite criticism regarding certain administrative lapses, Ikpeazu remained a central political figure in the South East after leaving office.

Similarly, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, a former governor of Enugu State, also served two terms from 2015 to 2023 under the PDP. Ugwuanyi was noted for his relatively calm political approach and efforts to maintain peace in Enugu, though his administration faced scrutiny over issues related to public sector reforms and infrastructure delivery.

Shehu Sani, a former senator representing Kaduna Central, is well known for his activism and outspoken stance on national issues. A civil rights advocate and former prisoner of conscience, Sani’s nomination has been received with mixed reactions, given his previous criticisms of successive administrations and bold commentary on security, human rights, and governance.

Also on the list is Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. Omokri has remained a visible political figure, especially on social media, where he frequently shares his views on Nigerian politics, governance, and social issues. He has also been involved in diaspora mobilization and advocacy on international platforms, making his inclusion particularly notable.

The full list reportedly contains several other individuals drawn from across the six geopolitical zones, representing a mix of political affiliations and professional backgrounds. The move is seen as part of the current administration’s attempt to balance political interests while promoting Nigeria’s diplomatic presence internationally.

Presidency sources suggest that the appointments are aimed at reinvigorating Nigeria’s diplomatic missions with a combination of career diplomats and seasoned public figures. However, critics argue that ambassadorial postings should prioritize foreign policy experience over political compensation.

The Senate is expected to screen and confirm the nominees before they are posted to various countries. Each nominee will be required to appear before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, where they will be assessed for their suitability, knowledge of diplomatic service, and ability to represent Nigeria’s interests on the global stage.

While official portfolios and destination countries for the nominees have not been disclosed, speculation is already mounting regarding who may be posted to key diplomatic stations such as Washington D.C., London, Beijing, and Brussels.

Reactions from political analysts have been swift, with some praising the inclusion of diverse voices, while others question the criteria used in selecting individuals for such sensitive roles. Some have also pointed out that the nomination of vocal critics like Shehu Sani and Reno Omokri could signal a strategic political shift aimed at fostering inclusiveness or silencing dissent through engagement.

Meanwhile, party loyalists and supporters of the nominees have taken to social media to celebrate the development, describing the appointments as a recognition of their service and influence in national affairs.

As the Senate prepares for the confirmation process, attention will remain focused on the transparency and merit of the screening, especially at a time when diplomatic relations and international image remain key priorities for Nigeria’s global standing.