WASHINGTON, USA — The United States has recalled its ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, along with a group of other career diplomats serving as ambassadors, as part of a broader effort by President Donald Trump to realign American diplomatic representation abroad with his administration’s policy priorities.
The move, first reported by Politico, affects ambassadors who were appointed during the administration of former President Joe Biden.
A State Department official confirmed on Monday, December 22, 2025, that those impacted will conclude their tenures as chiefs of mission in January, though they may return to Washington to continue serving in other roles if they choose.
Africa has been the most affected region in the recall. Ambassadors to at least 13 African countries, including Nigeria, Burundi, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Uganda, are among those being removed.
Diplomats in posts across the Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, South Asia and the Western Hemisphere are also included in the changes.
State Department Cites Standard Practice
In a statement, the State Department described the recalls as a routine aspect of a change in administration, noting that ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the president and are expected to advance the sitting president’s agenda.
“An ambassador is a personal representative of the president, and it is the president’s right to ensure that he has individuals in these countries who advance the America First agenda,” the statement said.
Officials emphasised that the recalled ambassadors are not being dismissed from the foreign service and remain eligible to serve in other capacities within the department.
Impact on U.S. Missions Abroad
The abrupt nature of the changes is expected to prompt operational adjustments at affected embassies, including shifts in leadership and the reorganisation of diplomatic initiatives.
The recall of the U.S. ambassador to Nigeria comes at a time of heightened focus on relations between Washington and African capitals.
Some lawmakers and the American Foreign Service Association, which represents U.S. diplomats, have expressed concern about the scope and timing of the move.
Nigeria has long been regarded by Washington as a key partner in West Africa, particularly on issues of regional security, economic cooperation and development assistance.
The recall of the ambassador marks a notable change in diplomatic engagement as both countries navigate the next phase of their relationship.
