Foreign Ministry Celebrates Veteran Diplomat Oluyide at Grand Retirement Ceremony
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Nigeria’s diplomatic community gathered in Abuja to honour one of its seasoned envoys, Ambassador Oluremi Oluyide, whose retirement marks the end of a distinguished career defined by decades of service, professionalism, and strategic contributions to the nation’s foreign policy.
The colourful send-off ceremony, held on April 22, 2026, brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and staff of the Ministry to celebrate the immediate past Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the event was in recognition of Ambassador Oluyide’s outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic service both at headquarters and in missions abroad.
Speaking at the ceremony, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Sola Enikanolaiye, described the retiring envoy as a consummate professional.
“Ambassador Oluyide is a diplomat of exceptional competence, integrity, and professionalism. His intellectual depth and commitment to excellence remain exemplary,” he said.
Also speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Adebayo Adeyemi, Director in the Office of the Permanent Secretary, commended the retired officer’s legacy of dedication and humility.
“He is a hardworking, humble and brilliant officer whose contributions have strengthened the Ministry’s institutional capacity,” he noted.
In her welcome address, Director of Policy Division, Esther Erewa, highlighted Ambassador Oluyide’s lasting impact on Nigeria’s foreign policy implementation.
“His leadership and dedication significantly enhanced the Ministry’s effectiveness and left an enduring legacy for future generations,” she said.
Colleagues and dignitaries at the event paid glowing tributes, describing him as a mentor and strategist whose influence will continue to shape Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape.
In his response, Ambassador Oluyide expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on his years of service.
“I appreciate the support and opportunities given to me throughout my career. I urge serving officers to remain committed to professionalism, resilience, and national service,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his readiness to continue contributing to national development even in retirement.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards, a ceremonial cake cutting, and a toast in honour of the retiring diplomat, marking the close of an illustrious chapter in Nigeria’s Foreign Service.
