Bolaji Urges Nigerians to Uphold Nation’s Image at Retirement Event

Bolaji Urges Nigerians to Uphold Nation’s Image at Retirement Event

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Retiring Director of Reforms and Innovations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji, on Wednesday called on Nigerians to actively protect and promote the country’s image, even as he marked his 60th birthday and retirement after nearly 35 years in public service.

The triple celebration kicked off on Tuesday with a thanksgiving service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Christian Chapel in Abuja and will conclude with a grand dinner and book presentation on Thursday at Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bolaji reflected on a career defined by dedication, innovation, and international engagement. He emphasized the importance of vision, collaboration, and self-motivation for public servants, noting that individual goals must align with the broader national vision.

“The country has a vision, but you must have your own personal vision. Your vision must be located within the vision of the nation. After a very clear vision, you must be ready to work with others,” he said.

Bolaji recounted the challenges and triumphs of his diplomatic career, including the often painful duty of repatriating Nigerians from abroad.

“Someone referred to me as the chief repatriation officer of Nigeria, because I have repatriated Nigerians from far and near all over the world back to Nigeria. But the painful aspect of it is when I have to receive dead bodies of Nigerians who were killed without justification,” he said.

Balaji also called on citizens to rise above religious, ethnic, or personal differences and to safeguard Nigeria’s reputation.

“We are a blessed people, a blessed nation. And our government is doing everything possible. We citizens must also come together. And we should stop demarketing our nation. For whatever creed, religion, or ethnicity, we should put it aside,” Bolaji urged.

The diplomat credited his longevity and success in the Foreign Service to faith, perseverance, and the ability to take initiative.

“Every civil servant or public servant, every individual whatsoever must recognize the supremacy of Almighty God. He’s the one who directs our path, and I thank Him for directing my path to the Foreign Service,” he said.

Guests at the event included senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives of other ministries and agencies, captains of industry, members of the diplomatic community, and family members.

The ceremony also recognized Bolaji’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic diplomacy, digital modernization of the foreign service, diaspora engagement, and multilateral initiatives.

In his remarks, a Director at the Minister’s Office, Ambassador Martin Adamu, described Bolaji as “a fantastic leader, a consummate diplomat, and a person whose leadership qualities have stood out from the very beginning,” noting that his influence and mentorship will leave a lasting mark on the Foreign Service.

Bolaji’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious career spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and global international institutions. He leaves a legacy of diplomacy defined by innovation, empathy, and strategic vision. As he transitions into the next phase of his life, he pledged to remain connected to his roots and continue contributing to Nigeria’s development.

The final leg of the celebrations, including the presentation of The 7-Star Diplomat, is scheduled for Thursday evening at the Abuja Continental Hotel.