Nigeria’s foreign policy framework has been restructured as President Bola Tinubu announces a new ordering of the “4D Doctrine” to refocus the country’s global engagement.
The President said the doctrine, originally anchored on democracy, development, demography and diaspora, has now been rearranged to demography, development, diaspora and democracy.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Odunuga said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation made the announcement while representing the President at the opening of an induction course for newly appointed envoys in Abuja.
Tinubu said the adjustment places Nigerians at the centre of foreign policy and is intended to ensure that international engagements deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
He charged ambassadors and high commissioners to intensify efforts in attracting foreign investment, strengthening strategic partnerships, and improving Nigeria’s global image in line with changing diplomatic realities.
The President said the appointments of the envoys reflect confidence in their capacity to advance Nigeria’s interests on the international stage, noting that the global system is undergoing rapid transformation driven by geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, technological disruption, climate challenges and emerging security threats.
He added that these developments have made the role of diplomats more critical than ever, urging them to adopt a modern, results-driven approach that blends traditional diplomacy with digital engagement, public diplomacy and strategic communication.
Tinubu also tasked the envoys with promoting Nigeria’s achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda while telling the country’s story in a more compelling and credible manner.
He emphasised the need to attract foreign direct investment, promote trade, and facilitate technology transfer, while prioritising the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.
According to him, diplomatic missions must operate with professionalism, integrity and patriotism, while serving as custodians of Nigeria’s image abroad.
He further urged accountability and results-driven performance, stressing that missions should be guided by clear and measurable goals that contribute to national development.
Tinubu encouraged the envoys to fully engage in the induction programme, noting that it is designed to equip them with the skills required for effective diplomatic service in a fast-changing world.
He commended the National Assembly for the swift confirmation of the nominees and urged the envoys to justify the confidence reposed in them, adding that the world is closely watching Nigeria’s diplomatic conduct.
