The Senate yesterday screened and confirmed three ambassadorial nominees after a prolonged session dominated by questions on national security, intelligence operations and diplomatic competence.
Those cleared by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs are former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ayo Oke; career diplomat and former Ambassador to South Korea, Amin Muhammad Dalhatu; and former Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS), Lateef Kayode Are.
The exercise took a dramatic turn when Oke, who once headed the nation’s external intelligence service, addressed long-standing controversies linked to his tenure. Responding to issues raised by Senators Seriake Dickson and Adams Oshiomhole, he said he would refrain from disclosing operational details but was ready to clarify “misconceptions already in the public domain.”
Oke said the NIA achieved “unprecedented organizational, operational and infrastructural milestones” under his watch between 2013 and 2017. He cited the construction of a major intelligence conference centre “on an empty field” as one of the agency’s key achievements.
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On the covert operation that has trailed him for years, the nominee insisted that the mission had the approval of two former Presidents. All actions taken, he said, were done strictly in defence of national security.
Quoting writer Philip Yancey on the uncertainties of life, Oke likened his ordeal to biblical trials, saying he endured the turbulence with faith and restraint. He added that the controversies caused deep personal distress, noting that he lost his 86-year-old mother during the period due to the “lies and damaging narratives” circulated about him.
Committee members acknowledged the sensitivity of the issues raised and commended the nominee for his composure and clarity.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Sani Bello, reminded all nominees to formally consult their home-state senators, noting that endorsement from at least two senators remains a prerequisite for confirmation.
Senators said all three nominees brought extensive experience in intelligence, diplomacy and public service, describing President Bola Tinubu’s choices as “strong and deserving.”
The committee later adopted a motion recommending their confirmation by the full Senate.
