The Senate has cautioned the 46 non-career ambassadorial nominees against making themselves inaccessible to Nigerians in their countries of posting or show preferential treatment to select few at the expense of others, when confirmed as ambassadors.

The advice was given yesterday at the National Assembly by the chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, at the opening ceremony of the screening exercise conducted for the nominees by the committee.

Sunmonu told the Ambassadors-to-be that there were reported cases of inaccessibility of some Nigerian diplomats by the country’s citizens in foreign lands, urging them not indulge in such acts. “I also wish to use this opportunity to bring to your notice, some previously reported cases of the inaccessibility by some Nigerian Envoys and to strongly caution you to desist from such behavior, if eventually confirmed,” she said.

Earlier, she revealed the criteria to be adopted by the committee in choosing the right people who would represent the country abroad as ambassadors, saying that a nominee’s appearance; composure and confidence:  presentation on issues raised; special skills; knowledge of diplomacy and international relations; and knowledge of general and specific issues around the globe would form the yardstick.

“At this juncture, I wish to assure you of the committee’s  determination, in the conduct of this assignment, to be just and fair to all nominees, without compromising the strict selection process of  qualified individuals amongst you that will represent Nigeria abroad.”