The Presidency has defended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to include Reno Omokri, Femi Fani-Kayode and Mahmood Yakubu in the latest list of ambassadorial nominees. The nominations went public last week and triggered wide national debate. Many Nigerians questioned why the former INEC Chairman, the ex-Aviation Minister and the former presidential aide should represent the country abroad. Their past controversies dominated online discussions and raised fresh concerns about political rewards under the current administration. Yet the Presidency insists that the outrage is exaggerated.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Protocol, Demola Oshodi, addressed the issue during an interview on Arise Television. He said every administration faces criticism over major appointments.
He explained that the President still has a duty to choose individuals who can strengthen his government, no matter the noise that follows.
Oshodi added that Nigerians elected Tinubu to make tough decisions, and those decisions will not always be popular. He stressed that competence, representation and political strategy all play a role.
Oshodi argued that ambassadorial postings are never based on loyalty alone. He said they require a balance of expertise, federal character and national service. He urged Nigerians to trust the President’s judgment, because he is responsible for assembling a team that can defend Nigeria’s interests globally.
He maintained that the President considered several factors before finalising the list. He described the appointments as strategic, not sentimental.
Oshodi also defended the inclusion of Mahmood Yakubu. He noted that Yakubu’s long career in public service and his experience supervising multiple national elections stood out.
He said the former INEC boss delivered what he described as “a generally good job” and that his years of national service should matter.
He insisted that Yakubu’s appointment is not a reward for loyalty but recognition of his experience and administrative record.
Oshodi also reacted to criticisms directed at Femi Fani-Kayode. He admitted that the former minister has had a turbulent political journey.
However, he insisted that past political controversies do not erase years of service. He explained that diplomatic positions vary from country to country.
Oshodi said some missions require strong personalities who understand complex political environments.
He added that the President may have nominated Fani-Kayode because he fits the needs of a specific foreign mission.
He also defended Reno Omokri’s nomination.
He dismissed claims that Omokri’s outspoken style should disqualify him. He said political appointments are not reserved for career diplomats alone.
He explained that the President also considers individuals who understand the administration’s foreign policy goals and can articulate Nigeria’s interests abroad.
He said the President is assembling a diverse team that blends experience, representation and political skill.
He insisted that the nominees were selected to strengthen Nigeria’s global presence while ensuring internal political stability.