Abdussamad Dasuki has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider retired military officers for ambassadorial roles. Dasuki represents the Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency of Sokoto State. He believes their experience is vital for Nigeria’s foreign representation.

In a recent statement, Dasuki highlighted Nigeria’s wealth of retired military personnel. These officers possess extensive strategic and tactical training. They have participated in high-level operations. Many have also gained invaluable battlefield experience throughout their careers.

He argued these retired officers would excel as ambassadors. This is especially true in countries offering military support. They can also facilitate the procurement of arms and armaments. Such resources are crucial for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.

Dasuki emphasized the distinguished service of senior retired military personnel. “Their firsthand understanding of modern warfare is invaluable,” he stated. “They also grasp counterterrorism strategies and defence procurement. This uniquely positions them to advance our national interests abroad.”

He explained that deploying them as envoys would offer multiple benefits. It would strengthen negotiations for vital military hardware. The government would also receive informed, experience-based strategic advice. This is crucial now, as the military needs modern reconnaissance drones and armed UAVs. These tools are essential to combat various armed conflicts, which pose existential threats to the nation.

Dasuki acknowledged the President’s constitutional power to appoint ambassadors. However, he stressed the urgency of current realities. These demand a more security-focused approach to foreign representation. This is particularly important for strategic countries.

He noted that insecurity has been Nigeria’s most pressing challenge for over two decades. The situation has recently worsened significantly. Unacceptable levels of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks are widespread. “These extraordinary times demand extraordinary strategic alignment,” he asserted. This includes our foreign policy direction. It also covers the calibre of individuals chosen to advance it.

Dasuki concluded by stating that a nation’s foreign policy must reflect its strategic needs. This is especially true when selecting envoys. Such envoys should go to countries where military and security cooperation is a priority.