The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged the financial and operational constraints faced by several Nigerian Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad.

In a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry explained that the financial situation in the Missions stems from budgetary limitations and shortfalls in allocations, which have significantly impacted their ability to deliver on their core diplomatic and consular mandates effectively.

The Ministry assured Nigerians at home and abroad that the welfare of its staff and their families in the diaspora is of paramount importance to the current administration.

“The government is taking decisive and concrete steps to address the issues of fund allocation to all its Missions abroad,” the statement read.

“One such remedial measure was the approval and release of special intervention funds to cushion the effects of the hardship faced by some Missions.”

“The Ministry set up a committee to assess and confirm the debt profile of affected Missions, ensuring payments are justifiable and carried out based on equity and fairness.”

The Ministry has cleared over 80% of available funds for payments, prioritizing service providers, salaries of locally recruited staff, and arrears of claims due to officers.

“The Ministry has also engaged the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation in obtaining refunds for the shortfall in Missions’ allocations in the 2024 fiscal year due to foreign exchange differentials,” the statement added.

The government has approved the settlement of the shortfall, and the first tranche has already been remitted to all Missions. The Ministry is working to develop a sustainable financial model for funding missions abroad and exploring innovative solutions to ensure long-term operational stability.

The Ministry recognised the resilience and dedication of its diplomatic staff, thanking host governments, service providers, and international partners for their understanding and cooperation.

“The Nigerian government remains unwavering in its commitment to providing necessary support to all its Missions abroad,” the statement concluded.

The statement reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to robust international diplomacy and protecting its citizens worldwide. (Nigerian Tribune)

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