Kayode Are US ambassador appointment begins as ex-DSS chief presents credentials to Donald Trump in Washington, marking a diplomatic milestone

Kayode Are, former Director-General of the Department of State Services, formally assumed duty on Sunday, 24 May 2026, as Nigeria’s ambassador to the United States after presenting his letter of credence to United States President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., marking a significant diplomatic transition for Nigeria.

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The development confirms Kayode Are’s full entry into diplomatic service following his appointment by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with his assignment centred on strengthening bilateral relations between Abuja and Washington.

The presentation of credentials formally clears the former intelligence chief to begin representing Nigeria in the United States, a role widely viewed as strategically important given longstanding security, trade, and counterterrorism ties between both nations.

In the opening engagement, Kayode Are reportedly expressed commitment to deepening cooperation on security architecture, intelligence sharing, and economic partnerships, leveraging his background in national security to support Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.

The appointment of the former DSS boss has been described in diplomatic circles as a bold and strategic move, reflecting Nigeria’s intent to deploy experienced security leadership in key international postings.

Observers note that such a profile could prove influential in navigating complex geopolitical discussions in Washington.

While the ceremony in the United States capital remained formal and restrained, it symbolised the start of a new phase in Nigeria–US relations under the stewardship of the new ambassador, as both countries continue to prioritise collaboration on regional stability and global security challenges.

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Kayode Are’s transition from domestic intelligence leadership to high-level diplomacy underscores a broader pattern of security expertise being integrated into Nigeria’s external engagements, reinforcing expectations of a proactive and results-driven diplomatic tenure.