Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu on Friday officially assumed duty at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja following her appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, who said the appointment reflected the Federal Government’s confidence in her diplomatic experience and leadership.
During a reception held for the minister, the permanent secretary of the ministry Dunoma Ahmed congratulated her on the appointment.
Mr Ahmed said her elevation was a recognition of her service and professionalism. He also expressed confidence in her ability to strengthen Nigeria’s foreign relations and deepen diplomatic partnerships across the world.
According to him, the ministry remains committed to promoting Nigeria’s national interests, protecting Nigerians abroad, attracting foreign investment and strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations.
Ahmed assured the minister of the ministry’s support in implementing the foreign policy priorities of the administration.
In her remarks, Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked the management and staff of the ministry for the reception.
She reaffirmed her commitment to building on the work already done under the PresidentTinubu administration and advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy goals.
The minister also restated the Federal Government’s commitment to the 4D Foreign Policy agenda centred on Democracy, Development, Diaspora and Demography.
She said citizen diplomacy, professionalism, strategic autonomy and institutional efficiency would remain important in addressing global challenges and protecting Nigeria’s interests.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu also commended members of staff of the ministry for their service and pledged to prioritise staff welfare.
She added that she would work closely with the ministry’s management and agencies under it to improve service delivery and ensure the protection of Nigerians abroad.
Senior management staff and heads of agencies under the ministry were present to receive her at the ministry in Abuja.
