Nigeria Honours Ambassador Oluremi Oluyide at Retirement Ceremony By Raymond Enoch
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has honoured Ambassador Oluremi Oluyide, the immediate past Director of the Planning, Research and Statistics Department, at a colourful retirement ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. The event celebrated his decades of dedicated service and significant contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic mission both at home and abroad.
According to a statement by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ceremony brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and staff of the Ministry to recognise the outstanding career and achievements of the retired ambassador.
Speaking at the occasion, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described Oluyide as a diplomat of exceptional competence, integrity, and professionalism. He praised his intellectual depth and commitment to excellence, urging younger officers to learn from his discipline and work ethic.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Ambassador Adebayo Adeyemi, Director in the Office of the Permanent Secretary, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to recognising excellence. He described Ambassador Oluyide as hardworking, humble, and brilliant, noting that his contributions have strengthened Nigeria’s diplomatic service.
In her welcome address, Ambassador Esther Erewa, Director of the Policy Division, highlighted Oluyide’s lasting impact within the Ministry. She noted that his leadership and dedication played a key role in strengthening Nigeria’s foreign policy implementation and institutional capacity.
Colleagues and dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages described the retired ambassador as a mentor, strategist, and respected figure whose influence will continue to be felt across the diplomatic community.
In his response, Ambassador Oluyide expressed gratitude to the Ministry and all stakeholders for their support throughout his career. He encouraged serving officers to remain committed to professionalism, resilience, and national service, while pledging to continue contributing to Nigeria’s development even in retirement.
The ceremony featured the presentation of awards, the cutting of a retirement cake, and a toast in honour of the celebrant, marking the end of a distinguished career in the Nigerian Foreign Service.
