The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has honoured Ambassador Akinremi Alade Bolaji, outgoing Director of the Department of Reforms and Innovations, with a ceremonial farewell reception held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Ministry’s Atrium in Abuja.
The event drew top government officials, including the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; directors of the Ministry; representatives of government agencies; members of the diplomatic corps; and other stakeholders.
Renowned for his discipline, professionalism, and extensive diplomatic expertise, Ambassador Bolaji was celebrated as one of the most outstanding officers to have served in Nigeria’s Foreign Service.
In her goodwill message, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu described him as “one of the brightest and the best” in the Ministry, praising his intelligence, meticulous approach to work, and charismatic personality. She highlighted his versatility, his mastery of international legal frameworks such as the Vienna Convention, and his ability to manage multi-sector joint commissions with enviable competence. She further commended his role as a mentor and stabilising source of support for younger officers.
Speakers from various government institutions including the ICPC, Ministry of Aviation, the diplomatic community, and private sector representatives shared personal testimonies of Ambassador Bolaji’s commitment to excellence. They recounted his contributions during international negotiations, his problem-solving skills, and his reputation as a dependable coordinator across agencies. Representatives of the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Malaysian High Commission, and African business groups described him as a disciplined diplomat, bridge-builder, and strong advocate for continental entrepreneurship.
In an emotional response, Ambassador Bolaji expressed profound gratitude to the Ministry, colleagues, and his family. He noted that the farewell ceremony was the first of its kind in over a decade, recalling that the last formal send-forth for retiring directors held in 2013. He stated with pride that he was leaving the service “with no blemish,” and pledged to remain available to the Ministry as a senior citizen of the Foreign Service.
He assured younger officers that there would be no leadership vacuum, emphasized that many had been trained and prepared to sustain the Ministry’s legacy. He also hinted at a forthcoming book chronicling his diplomatic experiences.
The event featured cultural performances, presentation of gifts, tributes, and a ceremonial cake cutting. The Planning Committee described Ambassador Bolaji as a “seven-star diplomat” whose absence would be deeply felt within the Ministry.
The reception concluded with light entertainment, music, and celebration of a remarkable career in Nigeria’s Foreign Service.
