The Federal Government has admitted that many Nigerian embassies and consulates around the world are facing financial and operational problems.

These include unpaid staff salaries, debts owed to landlords, and unsettled bills with service providers.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said these difficulties have disrupted the smooth running of diplomatic offices globally.

The Ministry explained that the financial strain in missions abroad is linked to Nigeria’s economic situation, noting that embassies and consulates are not immune to the challenges facing other government institutions at home.

It reassured that the welfare of staff remains a top priority for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with interventions already underway.

The statement also revealed that years of budget limitations have made it difficult for missions abroad to function properly. These shortfalls have affected their ability to carry out key diplomatic and consular responsibilities.

To address the issue, a special committee has been set up to review the debt records of missions.

According to the Ministry, over 80 percent of the available funds have been released, prioritising payments to service providers, salaries for locally recruited staff, and arrears owed to officers.

The Ministry confirmed it is working with the Office of the Accountant-General to cover shortfalls caused by foreign exchange differences in the 2024 budget.

The first tranche of refunds has already been remitted, while additional allocations for the second semester have been approved.

Efforts are also being made with the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria to ensure missions receive their staff and operational costs on time.

These steps have already begun to stabilise the financial situation of Nigerian embassies and consulates abroad.

For the long term, the Ministry said it is developing a sustainable financial model to ensure operational stability.

This plan will include innovative solutions, efficiency measures, and broader public sector reforms aimed at improving fiscal governance and resource allocation.

The Ministry praised the resilience and dedication of Nigerian diplomatic staff, who continue to perform their duties under difficult circumstances.

It also thanked host governments, service providers, and international partners for their patience and cooperation.

Finally, the Ministry assured that these financial challenges are temporary and will soon be resolved.

It reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strong international diplomacy and the protection and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.

When asked to disclose the exact amount allocated to the missions, the spokesperson described it as “a diplomatic secret.”