India has reportedly declined to accept Muhammad Dahiru, Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to New Delhi, citing a policy against receiving ambassadors from governments with less than two years remaining in office.
Diplomatic sources explained that the refusal is not a reflection on the nominee but is linked to the short remaining tenure of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which ends in May 2027. Under international protocol, an ambassador cannot assume duty without the host country granting agrément, a formal approval that India has indicated it may withhold in this case.
Officials noted that the limited time left in the current administration raises concerns that the ambassador might not remain in office long if there is a change after the next election. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is reportedly seeking to use Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic ties to persuade India to reconsider the posting.
This development highlights the challenges Nigeria faces in filling key diplomatic positions, especially as ambassadorial nominations have been delayed since 2023, leaving many missions vacant for extended periods.
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