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U.S. Ambassador Richard Mills Concludes Nigeria Posting
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has officially ended his tour of duty following President Donald Trump’s global recall of about 30 U.S. envoys.
Mills was confirmed as ambassador in May 2024 and spent nearly two years strengthening U.S.-Nigeria diplomatic relations. The U.S. Mission in Nigeria announced that Deputy Chief of Mission Keith Heffern will serve as Charge d’Affaires ad interim until a new ambassador is appointed.
Diplomatic Shake-Up
The recalls, announced in December 2025, affected diplomats in over two dozen countries. Unlike typical transitions where political appointees resign gradually, this sudden removal of career diplomats is considered highly unusual. Most of the recalled envoys were career Foreign Service officers appointed during the Biden administration.
The U.S. Department of State explained that the move aims to realign the diplomatic corps with Trump’s “America First” agenda. Officials clarified that envoys are being recalled for other assignments and will retain their foreign service positions.
Reactions and Implications
The American Foreign Service Association called the move “highly irregular” and warned it could weaken U.S. credibility abroad and leave key diplomatic posts vacant. Africa was noted as the most impacted region by the recalls.
Despite the shake-up, U.S.-Nigeria relations remain mutually beneficial. Recent developments include Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern by the U.S. and some visa restrictions. Both countries continue to work on strengthening diplomatic ties through joint initiatives and partnerships.
