In a statement, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria confirmed the departure, noting, “Ambassador Mills led the U.S. Mission in strengthening relationship with Nigeria for the last year and a half,” and that Deputy Chief of Mission Keith Heffern will serve as Charge d’Affaires.
The recall, announced in December 2025 and affecting diplomats appointed during the prior administration, has been defended by officials as a “standard process” for aligning with the President’s agenda, but the American Foreign Service Association condemned it as “highly irregular” and “institutional sabotage,” warning it risks U.S. credibility and leaves critical positions unfilled. The move notably impacts Africa the most and occurs amidst ongoing developments in U.S.-Nigeria relations, including Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern.