Ambassador Richard Mills spent his last day as U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria on January 16, 2026.

Ambassador Mills led the U.S. Mission in Nigeria over the last year and a half, strengthening his country's relationship with Nigeria.

He was given a standing ovation by the staff of the US embassy in Nigeria, who all clapped their hands to celebrate him as he walked by dressed in Yoruba Adire attire.

Current Deputy Chief of Mission Keith Heffern will serve as Charge d’Affaires, a.i. until further notice.

Reacting, former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, shared on X, "The outgoing US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has performed credibly well in his mission over the years. He strengthened our bilateral relations and expanded in areas of cooperation. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours."

ASA