The Federal Government has cautioned Nigerians against adopting the title “Ambassador” without official appointment, saying the designation is reserved strictly for individuals formally nominated and accredited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The warning was issued in Abuja by the spokesperson of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, during a press briefing where he addressed growing concerns over the misuse of the diplomatic title.

Ebienfa explained that foreign missions have repeatedly contacted the ministry to confirm the status of Nigerians presenting themselves as ambassadors, creating unnecessary pressure on official communication channels.

He noted that the confusion often stems from individuals who receive honorary or promotional titles from private groups and then begin to present themselves publicly as diplomatic representatives of Nigeria.

According to him, while some organisations legitimately appoint brand ambassadors for marketing purposes, recipients sometimes wrongly convert such recognition into a formal diplomatic identity by attaching the prefix “Ambassador” to their names.

The ministry also raised alarm over fraudulent schemes in which unsuspecting Nigerians are allegedly offered fake ambassadorial appointments in exchange for large sums of money.

Ebienfa disclosed that such schemes falsely promise official documents and items, including appointment letters, diplomatic passports, vehicle number plates, and identity cards purportedly linked to the ministry.

He described these claims as deceptive and warned that those involved in such activities risk prosecution for impersonation and fraud.

The ministry reiterated that only the President, as Commander-in-Chief, has the authority to appoint and accredit ambassadors on behalf of Nigeria, urging the public to disregard any claims to the title that do not originate from the appropriate constitutional process.