Arise TV host, Oseni Rufai, recently disclosed the monthly earnings of Nigerian ambassadors.
This disclosure follows recent ambassadorial nominations. These include former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, Reno Omokri, and former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
Via a tweet, Rufai clarified the salary structure. Ambassadors’ earnings fall under the Consolidated Diplomatic, Consular and Foreign Service Cadre Salary Structure. This structure is implemented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassadors typically occupy Grade Level 17, the highest tier. They also receive various allowances when assigned to foreign postings.
Rufai noted that the basic pay is modest compared to diplomats in other nations. However, allowances constitute a significant portion of their total compensation package.
Ambassadors’ earnings can vary. Factors include the host country, individual experience, and fluctuations in exchange rates.
According to Rufai, an ambassador’s basic monthly salary ranges from approximately ₦800,000 to ₦1,200,000.
This translates to a yearly basic pay of between ₦9.6 million and ₦14.4 million.
These figures align with the earnings of other top public service officers at similar grade levels. They reflect adjustments made for inflation and the proposed ₦70,000 minimum wage for 2025.
Rufai emphasized that the basic salary alone does not represent an ambassador’s complete earnings.
Ambassadors posted overseas receive additional support. This covers high living expenses, hardship allowances, and costs for official duties.
These allowances boost their total monthly take-home. This can range from ₦2 million to ₦5 million, depending on the country of assignment.
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