I’m yet to resume as Nigeria’s ambassador to Mexico because of World Cup – Reno Omokri

Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has dismissed reports claiming that the Mexican government rejected his diplomatic appointment, attributing the delay in his assumption of office to ongoing activities surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico is co-hosting with the United States and Canada.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, the former presidential aide described the reports as politically motivated and without factual basis.

Omokri explained that Mexico is currently focused on preparations and engagements related to the global sporting event, a situation he said has affected several diplomatic processes, including the reception of foreign envoys.

“Mexico has not rejected me. Not at all. You should understand that Mexico is currently hosting the World Cup alongside the United States of America, and all their focus is on that,” he said.

He added that the delay is not unique to his appointment, noting that several Nigerian ambassadors-designate have yet to assume their respective postings.

“Most of us ambassadors have not resumed. So, I’m not the only one. A lot of my colleagues are in my situation, but it’s okay. These things happen,” Omokri stated.

Dismissing claims that his nomination had been rejected, he insisted that such narratives were being driven by political opponents.

“The opposition will always say things like I have been rejected. We do not work on the basis of the opposition. We work on the basis of reality,” he added.

Omokri also weighed in on the 2027 presidential election, arguing that President Bola Tinubu’s long-standing political consistency gives him an advantage over potential challengers.

Questioning the credibility of opposition figures who frequently switch political affiliations, he said such movements could undermine public confidence in their leadership.

“How can you say a man who has been in three political parties in six months is going to defeat a president who has been stable politically since 1989?” he asked.

He maintained that Tinubu’s political experience, stability, and consistency would remain key factors ahead of the 2027 general election.