The Uganda Abuja Embassy remains unfinished due to internal disputes, delayed payments, and unresolved investigations. Initially seen as a flagship diplomatic project, it has now turned into a troubling case of inaction and disarray.
In July 2022, Uganda began constructing the new High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria. The plan covered chancery offices, consular sections, and four apartment blocks. Authorities allocated Shs19.7 billion to the project, with completion expected by April 2024. The total timeline was 87 weeks.
However, between June 2023 and January 2024, the Nigerian Naira devalued sharply. Consequently, project costs surged. Contractors demanded adjusted payments. In response, the government postponed completion to October 2024. They also projected a November commissioning. Unfortunately, the delays continued, and work slowed dramatically.
In May 2023, Uganda appointed Mr. Eriya Tusubira as accounting officer for the mission. His arrival sparked resistance from existing staff, who rejected his posting by August. This unusual defiance broke diplomatic norms. Although Tusubira assumed office in November, he returned to Kampala for the holidays. He only resumed duties in June 2024. During his absence, the mission lacked financial direction, which further slowed progress.
Meanwhile, investigations into financial misconduct began intensifying. In October 2024, the Inspector General of Government (IGG) and State House Anti-Corruption Unit launched a probe into suspected money laundering. This led to the recall of five senior officials, including Ambassador Nelson Ocherger and his deputy Alfred Nnam. At the time, the Uganda Abuja Embassy project stood 97 percent complete. Yet, no final commissioning took place.
To stabilize the situation, the government deployed Ambassador Philip Odida and Dr. Sam Omara to Abuja. Despite these changes, the tensions persisted. Payments to contractors halted, and construction stopped entirely. Sadly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has remained silent on when or how the project will resume.
As weeks turned into months, the site remained idle. Red tape, mistrust, and weak leadership left the embassy in limbo. The project, once intended to enhance Uganda’s diplomatic strength, has now become a symbol of disorganization and poor oversight.
Uganda risks losing billions if this impasse continues. More importantly, the country’s global image is at stake. The public deserves accountability. Government officials must communicate a clear roadmap. Restarting payments and resolving leadership disputes are urgent priorities.
As of August 2025, no commissioning date has been announced. Unless immediate corrective steps are taken, this case could damage confidence in Uganda’s foreign missions. After all, diplomatic projects should showcase efficiency—not dysfunction.
