The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the nomination of former Minister of Youth, Sports and Social Development, Sani Ndanusa, as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner-designate.
The confirmation was announced during Tuesday’s plenary after the Senate considered a report submitted by its Committee on Foreign Affairs, which screened the nominee.
Presenting the report, the senator representing Niger North, Sani Bello, said the committee was satisfied with Ndanusa’s qualifications, experience and personal conduct.
Bello told the chamber that the nominee demonstrated a strong understanding of diplomatic affairs during the screening exercise and urged lawmakers to approve his appointment.
“We have thoroughly screened the nominee, and we are satisfied with his qualifications, exposure, conduct, character and experience. The nominee has a wide and in-depth knowledge of diplomacy,” he said.
Senate Chief Whip Backs Ndanusa’s Nomination
The Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno, who represents Borno North, also supported the nomination, describing Ndanusa as suitable for the diplomatic position.
Monguno said his assessment of the nominee’s educational background and contributions to public service showed that he was qualified for the assignment.
“I have carefully perused the résumé of the nominee with regard to his educational background and contributions to society in public service. He is eminently qualified for that position, and he is a square peg in a square hole,” he said.
He subsequently moved a motion for the Senate to resolve into the Committee of the Whole to consider the foreign affairs committee’s report.
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When Senate President Godswill Akpabio put the motion to a voice vote, lawmakers unanimously approved Ndanusa’s confirmation.
Akpabio Congratulates Ambassador-Designate
Following the confirmation, Akpabio congratulated Ndanusa and expressed confidence in his ability to carry out his new responsibilities.
“Let me use this opportunity to congratulate Engr. Ndanusa. I wish him well in his current assignment, and I hope that God will grant him more wisdom to do as he has done in other engagements,” the Senate President said.
Akpabio also commended Bello and other members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs for their handling of the nomination.
Ndanusa’s Previous Government Role
Ndanusa previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Youth, Sports and Social Development and chaired the National Sports Commission between 2008 and 2010.
His confirmation as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner-designate marks a new phase in his public service career.
The Senate’s approval followed the foreign affairs committee’s recommendation that his credentials and experience were sufficient for the diplomatic appointment.