Nigerian Embassies Struggle with Unpaid Rent, Salary Backlogs

In a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the constraints had disrupted embassy operations, resulting in delayed salary payments for locally engaged staff, unpaid allowances for home-based officers, and accumulated rent owed to landlords and service providers.

“The ministry is aware of the financial limitations affecting missions, including the inability to meet salary obligations, pay service providers, settle rent, and disburse foreign service allowances,” the statement read.

The ministry explained that the situation reflects broader economic realities at home, where years of underfunding have weakened the ability of missions to perform their core diplomatic functions.

Despite the setbacks, the government assured Nigerians that the welfare of its foreign service officers remains a priority for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. It disclosed that special intervention funds had already been released, with over 80 per cent disbursed to cover salaries, arrears, and payments to service providers. A verification committee has also been set up to review outstanding debts and ensure transparency.

The ministry further confirmed collaboration with the Office of the Accountant-General to recover last year’s shortfalls, which were worsened by exchange rate fluctuations. The first tranche of payments has already reached some missions, while a second tranche is awaiting release in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Looking ahead, the government said it is developing a more sustainable funding model for missions, aligned with ongoing fiscal reforms aimed at efficient resource management and stronger governance.

While expressing appreciation to embassy staff, host governments, and service providers for their patience, the ministry maintained that the current difficulties are temporary.

“We are confident these challenges will soon be resolved. Nigeria remains committed to effective international diplomacy and to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens worldwide,” the statement added.