President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restructured Nigeria’s foreign affairs leadership, appointing Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs. She succeeds Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to pursue the Bauchi governorship race ahead of the 2027 elections.

The elevation marks a promotion from her previous role as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The move is positioned as part of a broader effort to recalibrate Nigeria’s diplomatic strategy.

In a complementary appointment, Sola Enikanolaiye has been nominated as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, pending Senate confirmation. A seasoned diplomat, Enikanolaiye brings over three decades of experience, including service as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria.

His diplomatic career spans key postings across Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi, reinforcing his international credentials. The Presidency is banking on this depth of experience to support Nigeria’s evolving foreign policy priorities.

According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the reshuffle is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s global engagement and policy execution. The administration has tasked the new leadership with advancing economic diplomacy, protecting citizens abroad, and deepening international partnerships.

The appointments reflect a strategic push to align foreign policy with national development objectives. Overall, the changes signal a more deliberate approach to positioning Nigeria on the global stage.