The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), on Thursday in Abuja, urged diplomats resuming duty in Nigeria to be guided by diplomatic practice and ensure that their activities remain within the limits of their profession as they monitor the build-up to the forthcoming elections.
Buhari spoke at the Presidential Villa, Abuja after receiving letters of credence from six ambassadors.
They include Nicolas Lang, Switzerland; Annika Englund, Sweden; Peter Ryan, Ireland; Kitiisak Klomchit, Thailand; Nicolas Nyouky, Senegal; and David Chaot, South Sudan.
Buhari’s warning was issued 11 months after he urged the ambassadors of the Czech Republic, Italy, Spain, and Israel to steer clear of internal politics and remain within the limits of their schedules.
He also said Nigeria is working closely with members of the Economic Community of West African States to deal with insecurity in the region and implement strategies to contain the spate of unconstitutional changes in government.
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, revealed this in a statement he signed on Thursday, titled “Nigeria, ECOWAS member states implement strategies to halt coups, President Buhari says as six ambassadors present letters of credence.”
Speaking after a short ceremony at the State House, the president rehashed his message, saying that as the country elects a new president on February 25, 2023, the foreign government representatives must not meddle in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
‘‘I urge you to be guided by diplomatic practice to ensure that your activities remain within the limits of your profession as you monitor the build-up to the elections and the conduct of the general elections themselves.
‘‘I wish you all success in your respective tours of duty and at the same time encourage you to take time to enjoy the unique nature and culture at your disposal as you travel across our country,” he said.
Buhari also called for cooperation and collaboration from the countries to overcome challenges in West Africa.
