In the realm of international relations, diplomacy is an art form that demands a precision of words, a finesse of expression, and an understanding of the intricate dance of nation-states. This is why, as a famous Western joke suggests, different situations call for different languages – be it speaking Italian with a chef, French with…
In the past month, we have seen two distinct instances where diplomatic blunders were committed in the course of Nigeria’s international communications. These events have underscored the pressing need for Nigeria to elevate our diplomatic tact and external communications. The first, which related to our response to the Gabonese coup, might have escaped the scrutiny of most, but the second, concerning the lifting of the United Arab Emirates visa ban, unfolded for all to witness.
While seemingly commendable on the surface, this statement falls short in the realm of international diplomacy. International affairs revolves around the relationships between nation-states, not the actions of individual leaders. The statement should have centred on Nigeria as a nation, and Abuja as the seat of power, similar to how Washington, Moscow, and Paris addressed the matter.
Additionally, the statement could have been condensed, as diplomacy often values brevity in case of future manoeuvrability.