From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin.
The Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows Alumni Association of Nigeria (COSFAN), has marked the 80th birthday of Ambassador Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, CFR, with an elaborate ceremony held at the Kwara State Banquet Hall, Ilorin.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a festschrift titled Readings in Diplomacy, Democracy, Peace, and Development, a publication dedicated to Prof. Gambari’s significant contributions to Nigeria and global diplomacy.
In his address, COSFAN President Dr. Ekundayo Samuel, described the honouree as “a true luminary and diplomat whose work has profoundly impacted countless lives.” He noted that the book celebrates Prof. Gambari’s lifetime achievements, saying, “This book is not just a collection of essays but a testament to the honouree’s influence, intellect, and service to humanity.”
Dr. Samuel also emphasized COSFAN’s commitment to national development, particularly in education, and highlighted the association’s role as a think tank addressing critical challenges in collaboration with ministries such as Education, Health, and Foreign Affairs.
Reflecting on Prof. Gambari’s legacy, Dr. Samuel remarked, “At 80, Prof. Gambari reminds us that diplomacy is more than a profession, it is a calling that requires courage, empathy, and commitment to the greater good.”
The Secretary of COSFAN’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Abiola Adimula, praised Prof. Gambari as an exceptional academic and diplomat whose global contributions are unmatched.
She revealed that proceeds from the book launch would fund a Professorial Chair and a research fund on Diplomacy and Peace Studies at the University of Ilorin. “This initiative ensures that Prof. Gambari’s legacy continues to inspire generations,” she added.
Prof. Gambari, in his speech, reflected on his journey and the values that shaped his career, including faith, diligence, and staying connected to his roots. “If someone from a village primary school in Bode Sadu can achieve this much, then truly the sky is the limit for everyone,” he said.
He emphasised the interconnectedness of peace, development, and democracy, stating, “There can be no development without peace, and no durable peace without sustainable development. Both depend on the people’s right to choose their leaders and express themselves freely.”
Prof. Gambari also outlined his philosophy on foreign policy, advocating for concentric circles of engagement starting from the local level to the global stage. “Foreign policy bridges domestic and external dimensions, ensuring that national interests are safeguarded,” he explained.
The book reviewer, Nigeria’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations (2018–2019), Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, identified poverty and weak traditional laws as key causes of insecurity in Nigeria. He called on the government to address these issues to foster peace and development.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, described Prof. Gambari as a global icon whose contributions to scholarship and diplomacy have earned him immense respect. He encouraged Nigerians to draw lessons from the festschrift in addressing contemporary challenges.
The event, attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria and the diaspora, celebrated Prof. Gambari’s extraordinary achievements. In the words of Dr. Ekundayo Samuel, “Happy 80th birthday, H.E. Amb. Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari. Your influence and wisdom know no bounds.”
The ceremony underscored Prof. Gambari’s enduring legacy as a diplomat, scholar, and leader, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria and the global community.
