The fresh nomination comes about two weeks after Dakingari’s name was earlier forwarded to the Senate and subsequently withdrawn amid controversy.
His initial nomination had generated debate after he was listed alongside nominees designated for postings to the United States, United Kingdom and France, a development that sparked discussions and led to the withdrawal of his name from the earlier list.
Tinubu’s letter conveying the renewed nomination was read during plenary on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The president said the appointment was made pursuant to Section 171(1), (2)(c) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Following the reading of the letter, Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for screening, directing the panel to submit its report within one week.
However, during deliberations, senators clarified that the nomination was for a non-career ambassadorship, despite the wording of the presidential letter, which appeared to indicate a career diplomatic posting.
Lawmakers noted that Dakingari’s political background and public service history aligned more with a political appointment than a professional foreign service role, stressing that the screening would proceed on that basis.
The fresh submission formally reopens consideration of his appointment, subject to the Senate’s confirmation process.
The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs is expected to conclude its screening and report back to the chamber within the stipulated timeframe.
