FG Warns Against Illegal Use of ‘Ambassador’ Title, Says Only Presidential Appointees Qualify

The Federal Government has banned the unauthorized use of the title “Ambassador” by individuals who have not been officially appointed by the President, warning that only duly designated persons are legally entitled to bear the designation.

The directive was announced on Friday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, during a press briefing in Abuja.

Ebienfa said the government had observed with concern the increasing trend of some Nigerians falsely presenting themselves as ambassadors without any formal appointment or diplomatic mandate from the President.

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He stressed that the title “Ambassador” is a constitutional and diplomatic designation reserved strictly for career diplomats and non-career envoys who have been officially nominated by the President and confirmed through the appropriate government processes.

According to him, the misuse of the title not only misleads the public but also undermines Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity and international reputation.

He warned that individuals found falsely using the title would face legal consequences, noting that such actions could amount to impersonation and misrepresentation under the law.

The ministry urged the public, institutions, and organizations to verify claims of diplomatic status before according recognition or privileges to anyone claiming to be an ambassador.

Ebienfa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to preserving the sanctity of Nigeria’s diplomatic institutions and ensuring that official titles are not abused for personal gain or public deception.