By Anietie Akpan
The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, alongside prominent scholars, have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Nations.
Bamire, in a letter signed on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, and the university community, described the appointment as a reflection of merit, competence, and proven leadership.
“This appointment is well-deserved and a testament to Senator Jimoh Ibrahim’s academic excellence, global exposure, and distinguished record of service. It is also a proud moment for Obafemi Awolowo University as one of our illustrious alumni takes on this important global responsibility.”
He further applauded the President for what he described as a thoughtful and strategic decision.
“We commend the President for this choice, which clearly demonstrates confidence in capacity and leadership. We are confident that Senator Ibrahim will advance Nigeria’s interests and strengthen its voice at the United Nations.”
Also reacting, Professor Kehinde Olayode of the Department of International Relations, OAU, described the appointment as timely amid shifting global dynamics.
“The global order is undergoing significant disruption, with increasing pressure on the rules-based international system that has guided diplomacy since 1945.
At such a critical time, appointing someone with Senator Ibrahim’s academic pedigree and diplomatic exposure is both insightful and strategic.”
Olayode, an alumnus of the University of Cambridge, added that Ibrahim’s background would be instrumental in navigating complex multilateral engagements.
“His exposure to international diplomacy, particularly through Inter-Parliamentary Union engagements, and his training at Cambridge place him in a strong position to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s multilateral diplomacy.”
In the same vein, Associate Professor Solomon Tai Okajare described the appointment as carefully considered, noting Ibrahim’s intellectual depth and diplomatic acumen.
“Senator Jimoh Ibrahim is highly cerebral, articulate, and deeply analytical.
He brings a rare ability to engage in data-driven and persuasive diplomatic discourse, which is essential in advancing national interests on the global stage.”
Okajare expressed confidence in Ibrahim’s capacity to deliver in his new role.
“At this critical juncture, Nigeria needs an assertive and strategic voice at the United Nations. Senator Ibrahim possesses the intellectual depth, global exposure, and legislative experience required to deliver on this mandate.”
The scholars expressed optimism that Ibrahim’s appointment would strengthen Nigeria’s role in global affairs and enhance its engagement within the United Nations system.
