Popular TV host Oseni Rufai has disclosed the monthly salaries earned by Nigerian ambassadors, following President Bola Tinubu’s submission of 32 additional ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for confirmation. The list includes former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu, Reno Omokri, and former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, among others.
Rufai explained that the earnings of ambassadors are determined by the Consolidated Diplomatic, Consular and Foreign Service Cadre Salary Structure (CONPSS), which governs senior Foreign Service Officers in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassadors typically occupy the highest grade level in the structure — GL 17 — and receive various allowances, especially when posted abroad.
According to Rufai, data from government budget records and foreign service pay reports shows that while the basic salary may appear modest by international standards, it is heavily boosted by allowances tied to overseas postings, exchange rates, and living costs.
He noted that currency fluctuations — with 1 USD valued at roughly ₦1,650 as of November 2025 — also influence compensation levels.
Rufai stated that the basic monthly salary for an ambassador ranges between ₦800,000 and ₦1,200,000 (approximately $485–$727). He added that entry-level foreign service officers earn around ₦300,000–₦500,000, but ambassadors, being at the top of the career ladder, earn significantly more.
He further explained:
“Annual Basic Salary: ₦9.6 million to ₦14.4 million (about $5,818–$8,727 USD). These figures match public sector pay for Grade Level 17 officers, adjusted for inflation and the increased minimum wage of ₦70,000.”
However, he clarified that basic salary alone does not reflect the full earnings of ambassadors, as they receive extensive allowances for accommodation, representation, hardship, and other foreign posting needs.
Rufai added that with allowances included, total monthly take-home pay often exceeds ₦2 million to ₦5 million (about $1,212–$3,030 USD), depending on the country of assignment.
