By Princess Joy Omagha Idam
Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Queen of Diplomacy, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has officially resumed office with a promise to promote a citizen-centred foreign policy anchored on the Federal Government’s 4D agenda of Democracy, Development, Diaspora and Demography.
The Minister assumed duty on Friday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja following her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
She was received by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, alongside directors and heads of agencies under the Ministry, including the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, the Technical Aid Corps and the Foreign Service Academy.
Welcoming the Minister, Ambassador Ahmed described her appointment as well deserved, citing her experience, professionalism and contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements during her previous role as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
He expressed confidence in her capacity to strengthen Nigeria’s foreign relations and advance the country’s strategic interests globally, assuring her of the Ministry’s support and cooperation.
Heads of agencies under the Ministry also pledged their commitment to working closely with the Minister in achieving the Ministry’s objectives.
In her remarks, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked the management and staff of the Ministry for the reception and pledged to build on the achievements recorded under the administration of President Tinubu.
She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the 4D Foreign Policy framework, with emphasis on citizen diplomacy, strategic autonomy and the protection of Nigerians abroad.
The Minister further stressed the importance of professionalism, innovation, efficiency and unity in addressing emerging global challenges and promoting Nigeria’s interests at regional and international levels.
She also assured staff of her commitment to improved welfare, effective service delivery and stronger collaboration among agencies under the Ministry.