Ooni, Akpabio, Abiodun, Others Applaud President’s Choice Of UN Envoy

Key political leaders, traditional rulers, and international figures have applauded President Bola Tinubu for appointing Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s envoy to the United Nations.

In a statement made available yesterday by Ambassador Ibrahim’s media team, the stakeholders, in their separate congratulatory messages, described the decision as a strategic move aimed at strengthening the country’s diplomatic presence on the global stage.

Among those who commended the appointment are the Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State, and the Ogiame Atuwatse III, who described Ibrahim as well qualified for the diplomatic role.

In a message to the envoy, the Ooni of Ife said Ibrahim’s academic pedigree and international exposure place him in a strong position to represent Nigeria at the United Nations.

He noted that the senator, who holds a doctorate from the University of Cambridge and degrees from the London School of Economics and Political Science and the University of Oxford, possesses the intellectual depth and global outlook required for the position.

The monarch also commended President Tinubu for what he described as the selection of a competent and credible Nigerian for a prestigious diplomatic assignment.

Similarly, Senate President Akpabio expressed appreciation to the President for the appointment, describing Ibrahim as one of the Senate’s institutional pillars.

According to Akpabio, the appointment is “a well-deserved recognition of Senator Ibrahim’s dedication, experience, and commitment to national service.”

He added that the senator’s legislative background and exposure to international parliamentary engagements would be valuable in advancing Nigeria’s interests within the global diplomatic community.

Governor Abiodun also welcomed the appointment, describing it as recognition of Ibrahim’s distinguished career in public service, business, and governance.

The governor expressed confidence that Ibrahim’s experience and understanding of global affairs would help strengthen Nigeria’s voice in international diplomacy.

In his congratulatory message, the Olu of Warri noted that Ibrahim’s selection, while serving as a senator, underscores the confidence reposed in his leadership ability and global network.

He added that the appointment reflects the lawmaker’s reputation and institutional influence in international engagements.

President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Tulia Ackson, also congratulated Ibrahim, recalling his brief tenure as Interim President of the IPU in 2023 and expressing confidence in his readiness for the new assignment.

Other Nigerians who reacted to the development said the appointment demonstrates the importance of experience and global networks in strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic representation at the United Nations.

They noted that Ibrahim’s exposure to international diplomacy and legislative leadership could help advance Nigeria’s interests in multilateral engagements.