Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has explained why he participated in the Senate screening of ambassadorial nominees despite earlier raising concerns about alleged violations of the federal character principle.

Ndume said his participation followed assurances that his concerns would be included in the committee’s report to the President.

He maintained that the list of nominees was lopsided and stressed the need for equitable representation across states.

“The remaining list should be balanced to address the breach of the federal character principles enshrined in our Constitution,” he said.

Ndume noted that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions could accommodate fairer representation through both career and non-career ambassadorial appointments.

The Senate subsequently screened and confirmed 68 ambassadorial nominees.