FG Warns Embassies Against Bypassing Diplomatic Protocols, Commends ASEAN Countries

The Federal Government has commended countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for respecting Nigeria’s established diplomatic channels, warning foreign missions against bypassing official protocols.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Ambassador of the Philippines to Nigeria, Mersole J.

Enikanolaiye said Nigeria appreciated ASEAN countries for maintaining proper diplomatic channels in their engagements with the Federal Government.

He, however, expressed concern over the conduct of some foreign missions in Abuja which, according to him, had developed the practice of bypassing established diplomatic procedures.

“Our job is to make your work easy. I am pleased that you respect our diplomatic protocols. You did not take advantage of any of our lapses, as some have been inclined to do,” the minister said.

He added that the Federal Government would engage the Diplomatic Corps on the matter, stressing that bypassing diplomatic channels would no longer be acceptable.

Nigeria, Philippines Seek Stronger Ties

The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening relations with the Philippines and other ASEAN countries under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said Nigeria’s economy was on a positive trajectory and remained open to partnerships in agriculture, commerce, manufacturing, oil and gas.

Enikanolaiye also urged the Philippines to fast-track negotiations on a visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and official/service passports, noting that Nigeria had entered similar arrangements with several countries.

He said additional agreements were being developed to deepen bilateral relations, while welcoming the construction of a permanent Philippine embassy in Abuja as a demonstration of confidence in Nigeria-Philippines relations.

Nigeria and the Philippines are marking 65 years of diplomatic relations this year, with both countries expected to pursue high-level visits and stronger institutional cooperation.

The minister also proposed increased exchange programmes and the convening of a Joint Commission to drive bilateral cooperation.

He further called for Nigerians visiting the Philippines to receive proper and dignified immigration treatment.

9,000 Nigerians Studying in Philippines

Earlier, Ambassador Mellejor highlighted the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and the Philippines.

He disclosed that about 9,000 Nigerian students are currently studying in the Philippines, describing their presence without major incidents as evidence of the cordial relationship between both countries.

The ambassador expressed interest in expanding bilateral cooperation beyond gas to areas including urea production, manufacturing, labour exchange and online seminars.

The Federal Government said it would continue working with diplomatic missions that respect Nigeria’s laws and procedures while pursuing stronger trade, investment and cultural ties with ASEAN countries and other international partners.