By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
ABUJA – The Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, has called on participants of the 26th Regular Course of the Nigeria Foreign Service Academy to uphold discipline, strive for excellence, and meet the academy’s high standards as they prepare for diplomatic service.
The Minister made this call on Tuesday in Abuja while declaring open the 26th Regular Course of the Nigeria Foreign Service Academy. Addressing the new inductees, she emphasized that their participation in the program is not just a routine training exercise but a significant milestone in their careers within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Your admission into this prestigious training program is a testament to your potential, discipline, and dedication. You are now on the path to becoming Nigeria’s diplomats, one of the critical mirrors through which the world will see and assess our great nation. This is both an honor and a great responsibility,” she stated.
She underscored the importance of maintaining a high level of professionalism, diplomacy, and personal conduct. She reminded participants that as future representatives of Nigeria on the global stage, they must embody the nation’s values and uphold its reputation.
“A diplomat is not only a nation’s representative but also a custodian of its values, traditions, and aspirations. Therefore, I urge you to always exhibit discipline, respect, and integrity. Your comportment, attitude, and even mode of dressing should reflect the decorum expected in diplomatic circles. The image of Nigeria’s Foreign Service is partly shaped by how you present yourselves, both in and out of the Academy,” she advised.
A Rigorous Training for Diplomatic Excellence
Ambassador Odumegwu Ojukwu highlighted that the training is designed to equip participants with the skills necessary for navigating the complex world of diplomacy. It will test their resilience, sharpen their critical thinking, and prepare them for the responsibilities ahead.
“Diplomacy demands patience, tact, cultural sensitivity, and excellent communication skills. You will be called upon to navigate complex negotiations, mediate disputes, and promote Nigeria’s interests in diverse international settings. This requires not just knowledge, but also wisdom, adaptability, and a keen sense of global affairs. Develop these qualities now, for they will serve you well throughout your career,” she advised.
The Minister also stressed the importance of networking and collaboration among course participants. She encouraged them to build relationships that would be beneficial throughout their careers.
“Take full advantage of the knowledge and expertise your instructors will impart. Learn from one another, build lasting relationships, and develop the skills that will make you exceptional representatives of Nigeria on the global stage,” she said.
She concluded by commending the Director and the management of the Foreign Service Academy for their dedication to grooming Nigeria’s future diplomats, while also encouraging participants to stay committed and focused despite the challenges they might face.
Call for Professionalism and Patriotism
In his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, urged participants to take full advantage of the training, sharpen their diplomatic skills, and develop a strong sense of patriotism.
“More significantly, the ethos of patriotism, loyalty, and professional devotion to service must be deeply embedded in your character and conduct. As representatives of Nigeria, you must begin to embody these virtues and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the principles that define our nation’s diplomacy,” he stressed.
He also highlighted the importance of mastering diplomatic writing, emphasizing the need for competence in speechwriting, report drafting, memorandum preparation, and etiquette, all of which are crucial in diplomatic engagements.
“I urge you to master the art of speech and report writing and delivery, the production of memoranda and briefs, as well as the nuances of color combination, tie-knotting, and proper dressing. These are essential components of diplomatic excellence,” he noted.
Strengthening Synergy in Diplomatic Service
In a goodwill message, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), represented by Ambassador Musa Musa Abubakar, Director (Training), congratulated the participants and reaffirmed the importance of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) in strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic service.
“The synergy between the Ministry and the Agency is crucial in protecting Nigeria’s national interests abroad. There is a need for continued collaboration and cordial relationships among Ministry and Agency personnel serving in Missions abroad,” he stated.
He further recommended that the Foreign Service Academy should seek affiliations with top Nigerian universities for enhanced professional training, which would improve the quality of diplomatic education in the country.
“In a determined move for excellence, I urge and recommend to the Academy to seek affiliation with any foremost Nigerian university for further professional training to enhance the FSA programme,” he added.
Appeal for Discipline and Commitment
Speaking on behalf of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Fatima Mahmod, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, urged participants to uphold discipline and dedication to their assignments.
“Discipline remains a core value of the diplomatic profession. As foreign service officers, you must carry yourselves with dignity, integrity, and professionalism, as you will be representing Nigeria at the highest levels,” she emphasized.
The opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including: Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON (represented by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Amb. Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. (Dr.) Dunoma Umar Ahmed; Head of Civil Service of the Federation, represented by Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, Hajia Fatima Mahmod; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olushola Enikolaiye; Director-General of the Public Service Institute (PSI); Director, Foreign Service Academy, Amb. Chimezie Okeoma Ogu; and Other Directors and senior staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The 26th Regular Course of the Nigeria Foreign Service Academy marks a significant step in preparing the next generation of Nigerian diplomats. With rigorous training, expert mentorship, and a strong emphasis on discipline and professionalism, the course is expected to produce diplomats who will uphold Nigeria’s image and advance its interests on the global stage.
The Minister’s charge to the participants was clear: embrace discipline, strive for excellence, and uphold the values of diplomacy as they embark on their journey toward serving Nigeria in the international arena.
