Richard Mills’ time as the United States ambassador to Nigeria has officially come to a close.
This followed a widespread recall of American diplomats, a directive from President Donald Trump that impacted over twenty nations globally, with Africa experiencing the most significant changes.
The US Mission in Nigeria released a statement on Tuesday, confirming that Mills’ last day was Friday.
This marked a sudden conclusion to an assignment that had started less than a year prior. Mills’ confirmation by the US Senate occurred in May 2024, a timeframe that was considerably shorter than the usual three to four years most ambassadors serve.
This recall is part of a larger diplomatic realignment announced in December, as the Trump administration sought to restructure its foreign policy.
State Department representatives confirmed that the ambassadors impacted by this decision would keep their foreign service status. They would also have the option to take on positions in Washington, should they wish to remain in service.
Mills’ exit arrives at a particularly sensitive time for US-Nigeria relations, which have been tested in recent months due to visa issues and ongoing security worries.
This situation has developed despite both governments publicly stating their desire to bolster collaboration in areas such as trade, security, and governance.
Until a new ambassador is appointed, the US Mission said Keith Heffern, the current deputy chief of mission, will serve as chargé d’affaires in Abuja.
For Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, the transition underscores the uncertainty facing diplomatic ties during a period of policy recalibration in Washington, with observers watching closely to see how the interim leadership shapes the next phase of US-Nigeria engagement.