The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that several Nigerian diplomatic and consular missions abroad are struggling with unpaid rent, salary arrears for local staff, and other financial obligations.
In a statement issued on September 1, 2025, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa acknowledged that years of budgetary shortfalls and the country’s broader economic challenges have restricted the smooth running of the missions. The statement noted that the situation has affected payments to service providers, landlords, locally recruited staff, and foreign service allowances for home-based officers.
The ministry explained that the Tinubu administration has begun introducing measures to ease the crisis, including the release of special intervention funds. A committee was also set up to verify debt profiles and ensure payments are handled fairly. According to the ministry, more than 80 per cent of available funds have already been cleared for salaries, service providers, and arrears owed to officers.
It further disclosed that recent monetary policy changes and exchange rate harmonisation had worsened funding shortfalls. Refunds for 2024 allocation deficits have started reaching missions, while second-semester allocations have also been approved.
Looking ahead, the government says it is working on a sustainable financial model for missions abroad, focused on innovative solutions and efficiency measures. It assured Nigerians overseas and international partners that the welfare of staff and the effective functioning of missions remain priorities.
The ministry praised the resilience of diplomatic staff and thanked host governments and service providers for their patience during the financial strain, expressing confidence that the difficulties will soon be resolved.
