Former presidential candidate Ameh Peter has expressed strong concerns over the inadequate funding of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the 2025 national budget, warning that it could significantly undermine the country’s diplomatic strength and global influence.
Ameh, who is also a former National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), said the ₦353.77 billion allocated to the Foreign Affairs Ministry is grossly insufficient to support the strategic operations required to position Nigeria effectively on the international stage.
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In a statement released in Abuja, he emphasized that poor budgetary support reflects a deeper problem of weak strategic planning and a lack of vision in managing Nigeria’s foreign policy and international relations.
“This underfunding is not just a financial oversight but a serious threat to Nigeria’s diplomatic capacity. It signals a worrying disconnect between the country’s ambitions and its commitment to achieving them,” he said.
Foreign Ministry Budget Compared to Global Needs
Ameh pointed out that the 2025 budget allocation of ₦353.77 billion, equivalent to approximately $221.1 million at the parallel market exchange rate of ₦1,600/$1, cannot sufficiently support Nigeria’s embassies, consulates, and foreign missions worldwide. These missions are vital to promoting economic diplomacy, securing foreign investment, and strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties.
He added that Nigerian diplomats are struggling with unpaid allowances, dilapidated infrastructure, and poor working conditions—all of which could be worsened by this meagre allocation.
“Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its quest to become a major global player. Yet, our foreign missions remain underfunded, which limits their ability to attract international trade, foreign direct investment (FDI), and global partnerships,” he said.
Strategic Implications of Underfunding
According to Peter, foreign policy is a key driver of national development, and by neglecting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government risks weakening the country’s presence in key international organizations and decision-making bodies such as the African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
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“In today’s interconnected world, diplomacy is not optional—it’s a national security and economic development tool. Nigeria cannot afford to be passive or absent from global conversations due to financial neglect,” he stressed.
Call for Budget Review
Ameh Peter urged the Federal Government to urgently review and increase the budgetary allocation for the Foreign Ministry. He called for a strategic and coordinated foreign policy approach that reflects Nigeria’s long-term goals, especially in areas like climate change, regional security, and economic diversification.
“Our diplomats need modern tools, proper training, and the financial capacity to represent Nigeria with dignity. Without this, our embassies risk becoming symbols of national neglect rather than pride,” he warned.
Peter concluded by stressing that meaningful global engagement requires investment, foresight, and political will, all of which must be reflected in the nation’s budgeting priorities.
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