Prof. Gambari One of Africa’s Unsung Heroes, Says COSFAN

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows Alumni Association of Nigeria (COSFAN) has described former Chief of Staff (CoS) to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Ambassador Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, as one of Africa’s unsung heroes.

The president of the COSFAN, Dr. Ekundayo Samue, stated this in Ilorin, Kwara state capital on Tuesday during a press conference ahead of the Public Book Readings/Presentation written by the group to mark the 80th birthday of the former Minister of External Affairs and former Permanent Representative at United Nations, Prof. Gambari.

The book is titled “Readings In Diplomacy, Democracy, Peace and Development” and will be unveiled on Thursday, Nov 21, 2024 in Ilorin.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President, Muhammadu Buhari and other dignitaries would be in attendance for the special occasion.

However, Dr. Samuel said that, “I am excited to welcome you all as we celebrate not only a remarkable milestone but also the profound impact of one of Africa’s unsung heroes, a distinguished scholar, diplomat, statesman, a true luminary, and a cherished Patron of COSFAN, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari.

“As Prof. Gambari approaches his 80th birthday on November 24, 2024, the world celebrates his career that is dedicated to advancing diplomacy, democracy, peace, development, and human rights”.

Dr. Samuel stated that, “This occasion is made even more special as we present a festschrift titled ‘Readings in Diplomacy, Democracy, Peace, and Development’, a tribute that encapsulates a lifetime of commitment, intellect, and service to humanity.

“This book is not just a collection of essays or research outputs; it is a testament to the influence our honouree has had on countless lives, shaping the minds of future leaders and inspiring a generation of scholars, thinkers, and doers.

“Prof. Gambari’s career spans decades of exceptional service, including his tenure as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1990 to 1999, his time as Minister of External Affairs from 1984 to 1985, his recent role as Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari from 2020 to 2023, among several others.

“He is the Founder and Chairman of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy, and Development, a think-tank organization that is focused on conflict prevention, democratization, and the advancement of sustainable development across Africa”.

He added, “This year’s celebration is not just an opportunity to honour Prof. Gambari’s personal achievements but also to reflect on his broader contributions to society.

“Through this book launch, we seek to highlight the lessons drawn from Prof. Gambari’s decades of experience in diplomacy, governance, and peacebuilding, and offer valuable insights for the future of Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

“His work has shown the importance of education, democratic governance, and the active participation of youth in shaping a better future for all”.