History of Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was established in 1961, shortly after Nigeria gained independence. Initially a small unit within the office of Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa’s office (1957), it became the Department of External Affairs and was led by Dr. Jaja Wachukwu. The department started with a staff of twelve officers, who became the first generation of Nigerian Foreign Service Officers (FSOs)
The 12 officers were:
Olumide O. Omololu
John N. Ukaegbu
C. C. Chukwura
Leslie Harriman
Chuks O. Ifeagwu
M. A. Sanusi
D. C. Igwe
Prince Adedokun Haastrup
E. Omotayo Ogunsulire
Philip C. Asiodu
John Garba
Soji Williams
In 1963, Nigeria became a republic, and the Ministry of External Affairs was established. During its early years, Nigeria’s foreign policy focused on African unity, independence, and non-interference. The country sought to become a regional leader and advocate for peaceful resolutions to conflicts, while also promoting economic cooperation within Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has undergone several structural changes to adapt to Nigeria’s evolving needs and the changing international landscape. While its focus on Africa has remained consistent, it has also expanded its engagement with other regions. In 1989, the Ministry was officially renamed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Recently, there has been a growing emphasis on economic diplomacy as Nigeria seeks to attract foreign investment, promote its economic interests, and drive development.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs represents Nigeria internationally, negotiating treaties, promoting trade, and safeguarding the country’s interests. It plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing Nigeria’s foreign policy and engages in public diplomacy to enhance the country’s image and reputation abroad.
All Nigerian Ministers of Foreign Affairs
Pre-IndependenceTafawa Balewa
Prime Minister and director of Foreign Affairs
First RepublicJaja Wachuku (1961-1965)
Nuhu Bamali (1965-1966)
Military GovernmentOkoi Arikpo (1967-1975)
Joseph Garba (1975-1978)
Henry Adefope (1978-1979)
Second RepublicIshaya Audu (1979-1983)
Emeka Anyaoku (1983-1983)
Military GovernmentIbrahim Gambari (1984-1985)
Bolaji Akinyemi (1985-1987)
Ike Nwachukwu (1987-1989)
Rilwanu Lukman (1989-1990)
Ike Nwachukwu (1990-1993)
Third RepublicMatthew Mbu (1993-1993)
Military GovernmentBaba Gana Kingibe (1993-1995)
Tom Ikimi (1995-1998)
Ignatius Olisemeka (1998-1999)
Fourth RepublicSule Lamido (1999-2003)
Oluyemi Adeniji (2003-2006)
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (2006-2006)
Joy Ogwu (2006-2007)
Ojo Maduekwe (2007-2010)
Odein Ajumogobia (2010-2010)
Henry Odein Ajumogobia (2010-2011)
Olugbenga Ashiru (2011-2013)
Viola Onwuliri (2013-2014)
Aminu Bashir Wali (2014-2015)
Geoffrey Onyeama (2015-2023)
2023-present