The Federal Government has raised alarm over the growing trend of individuals and groups fraudulently parading themselves as ambassadors, warning that such actions constitute criminal impersonation under Nigerian law.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the Ministry has been inundated with enquiries from diplomatic missions seeking clarification on the status of certain Nigerians claiming ambassadorial titles.
Ebienfa noted that the confusion stems from the proliferation of self-styled organisations and entities that confer honorary or commercial titles, including “ambassador,” on individuals who then adopt the designation in official and public engagements.
He disclosed that a particular group—currently under scrutiny—has been promoting a scheme requiring Nigerians to pay ₦2.5 million for membership in an alleged international organisation. The package, he said, falsely promises benefits such as access to diplomatic events, visa facilitation, use of airport diplomatic lounges, and even immunity from prosecution abroad.
According to the Ministry, the scheme also includes the issuance of fake diplomatic paraphernalia such as appointment letters, diplomatic passports, vehicle number plates, and identity cards purportedly valid for two years.
Describing the development as “deeply concerning,” Ebienfa stressed that such claims are entirely false and have no backing from the government.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to state unequivocally that only the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the authority to appoint ambassadors,” he said.
He further clarified that ambassadorial titles cannot be bought, sold, or obtained through membership of any organisation, and warned that individuals presenting themselves as ambassadors without official appointment are engaging in criminal acts.
The spokesperson also distinguished between diplomatic appointments and brand ambassadorships, noting that while the latter may be conferred for promotional purposes, recipients have no legal right to use the title “ambassador” as part of their official identity.
Ebienfa revealed that the Ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies, including the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps, to investigate and prosecute offenders involved in the issuance and use of fake diplomatic materials.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s diplomatic system, warning that any attempt to misrepresent the country through fraudulent claims would not be tolerated.
The Ministry also urged members of the public to exercise caution and verify claims of diplomatic status through appropriate government channels.
