Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Cambodia, (Dr) Yemi Farounbi, has criticised the state of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions abroad, arguing that inadequate funding, weak coordination and poor response from home are limiting their ability to protect the country’s interests and assist Nigerians overseas.

Farounbi, who recently spoke with PrimeStar News Online, said Nigeria needed to rethink the way its embassies operate, advocating what he described as a “slim embassy” model with fewer but adequately funded personnel.

He argued that Nigerian missions did not necessarily require large numbers of staff but should have competent diplomats, economic advisers, and enough personnel to perform their functions effectively.

According to him, some Nigerian embassies struggle with basic operational challenges, including office rent, staff accommodation, electricity and water bills.

He recalled that the Nigerian embassy in the Philippines had been burnt and, according to his account, had not been repaired.

Farounbi also complained about the difficulty diplomats face when proposals or initiatives requiring action from Abuja receive no timely response.

He said such delays could make ambassadors ineffective in attracting investment, promoting Nigeria’s interests and creating opportunities for Nigerians in their host countries.

The former ambassador also argued that Nigerian embassies should be better equipped to identify and assist Nigerians living abroad.

He cited the experience of Nigerians in South Africa, saying the embassy had not been adequately equipped to handle situations requiring the evacuation or return of citizens.

Farounbi said restoring Nigeria’s international image would require the country to strengthen its domestic economic and security capacity as well as improve the effectiveness of its diplomatic missions.