FG warns illegal use of 'Ambassador' title is fraudulent and criminal
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned last Friday that using diplomatic titles like 'Ambassador' or 'Diplomatic Envoy' without official appointment is fraudulent, a violation of Nigerian law, and a criminal act. The ministry said only the president can appoint and accredit ambassadors; no individual, organisation, or NGO may confer such titles, and they cannot be bought through payment, donations, or membership. It also noted that counterfeit diplomatic passports, identity cards, and vehicle plates displaying national symbols are illegal. Some individuals illegally use these titles in official correspondence and dealings with foreign embassies in Nigeria, causing embarrassment to the government. The ministry warned that impostors face prosecution, with security and regulatory agencies collaborating to clamp down on offenders. It clarified that private‑sector 'brand ambassador' roles are purely promotional and carry no diplomatic recognition. Do you verify a person's diplomatic claim before engaging with them, or would you report suspicious use of such titles to the authorities?