- Hamza Mohammed Sallau named Nigeria’s ambassador to Iran
- Appointment part of 65 ambassadors confirmed by Senate
- Sallau is a seasoned diplomat with over 25 years of experience
- Comes amid escalating Middle East tensions following recent missile strikes
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the posting of career diplomat Hamza Mohammed Sallauas Nigeria’s ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran, a strategic appointment amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
The Presidency of Nigeria has confirmed the appointment of Hamza Mohammed Sallau as the country’s ambassador to Iran, according to a statement released on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
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Sallau is one of 31 career and 34 non-career ambassadors recently approved to represent Nigeria in various countries and at the United Nations. The Senate had earlier confirmed the ambassadors in December, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has begun the induction and deployment process.
The statement added that several countries have already granted agrément, the diplomatic approval required for ambassadors to officially assume their duties. Notably, the United Kingdom approved Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu as Nigeria’s High Commissioner, while France gave agrément to Ambassador Ayo Oke.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has forwarded the nominations of the remaining 62 envoys to their respective host countries, requesting diplomatic clearances in line with international norms.
Who is Hamza Mohammed Sallau?
Sallau, a native of Niger State, is a veteran career diplomat with over 25 years of service. He holds a degree in Economics from Bayero University, Kano and has additional training in international security and diplomacy.
His diplomatic postings include Zambia, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Qatar, where he currently serves as Head of Mission.
Sallau’s appointment comes at a time of heightened instability in the region. On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched missile strikes on Iran, reportedly killing Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, among others. Iran retaliated with missile attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Bahrain, escalating tensions into what analysts describe as a full-blown regional conflict.
With the escalating crisis, Nigeria’s diplomatic presence in Iran is expected to play a crucial role in protecting Nigerian citizens and strengthening diplomatic ties in a volatile environment.
“Nigeria’s engagement in Iran is now more significant than ever, and Sallau’s experience will be invaluable,” the statement from the Presidency said.