Foreign Affairs Minister Commends Association For Upholding Nigeria Globally

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has commended Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN) for the role it plays in nation’s building and positioning Nigeria in the global arena.

The commendation was made at the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN) awards ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria.

Ambassador Tuggar, represented by the Charge de Affairs to Netherlands, Ambassador Remi Olujide,
also assured the body of the Ministry’s continued support to all ARCAN’s activities and programmes.

“I assure the entire leadership of Akan, of the sustained support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in all your activities, programs, and events. The Ministry will continue to support you, not only for the points already made, but because you remain bridge builders, as well as nation builders. This is on account of the fact that even in retirement, the entire membership of Akan, you are still playing commendable roles, you still demonstrate an alloyed patriotism to the task of nation building, and time and again, you make your recommendations and suggestions to the authorities on all areas of our national life, and indeed on how to continue to position Nigeria in the global arena, ensuring that Nigeria’s position in the global arena is sustained and even enhanced”,he said

On her part, the Head of the Nigerian Civil Service, Dr. Esther Walson-Jack, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Dunoma Ahmed, said the Awards is a time to hail those who have contributed in upholding the ideals of patriotism, diplomacy, and Nigeria’s integrity.

“It is a time to reflect on the rich history of Nigeria’s foreign policy, foreign service, and recognise the extraordinary contributions of those who have represented our country with pride and honour across the globe.

ARCAN’s decision to hold the 2024 edition of this event simultaneously in Abuja and Lagos, with virtual participation is a commendable demonstration of inclusivity and innovation.

It underscores the Association’s continued relevance and commitment to adapting to modern realities while preserving its core values.

“As the head of the Civil Service of the Federation, I am deeply aware of the vital role our diplomatic corps has played in shaping Nigeria’s international relations and national development. The work of our ambassadors, retired and active, goes beyond foreign missions. It encompasses promoting peace, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange, all of which are essential pillars of our national development agenda”.

She stressed that the gesture of honouring living ambassadors and those who have departed by the Association reinforces the importance of continuity and memory in nation-building. Noting that the recognition is as a call to continued engagement.

“These individuals’ legacies deserve to be remembered, and their stories should be retold as an inspiration for future generations of Nigerians. I commend ARCAN, and the entire executive leadership for their steadfast commitment to preserving the dignity and contributions of our retired diplomats. Your tireless efforts ensure that the values of excellence and public service continue to thrive beyond the years of active duty. Furthermore, I urge today’s award recipients to see this recognition as a reward for past service and a call to continued engagement. Your experiences, insights, and counsel remain critical to improving our civil service and diplomatic engagements. Nigeria needs your voice, wisdom, mentorship now more than ever. Let us continue to draw strength from the wisdom of those who have gone before us. And let us never forget that a nation that values its heroes is a nation that secures its future”. She added

According to the President ARCAN, Ambassador Joel Keshi, the Award was created to honour members of the Association and notable Nigerians who have contributed to the development of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy.

“There is no honour as great as one accorded to you by your colleagues. This is why the ARCAN AWard is special. The ARCAN Award was instituted five years ago, and this is our fourth Award ceremony and the first under my leadership. It was created to honour members of the Association and notable Nigerians who have contributed to the development of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy. This year, we are recognising twelve of our colleagues in Abuja and Lagos via zoom , as well as five diplomats posthumously.

Their citations and messages of goodwill, highlight their contributions to Nigeria’s Foreign Policy. So, to the recipients who are here with us, on behalf of our Association, I say congratulations”, she noted

One of the Awardees, Ambassador Suleiman Dahiru, expresses his feelings.

“I feel very happy. I feel gratified. I spent all my working life in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. And for our association to recognise my contribution to the progress of the Nigerian Diplomatic Service is something that I am proud of. So it has been a very great day for me. When I was nominated some months ago, I felt somehow, but later on I told myself that I deserve the honour because I worked for it. So I’m very happy. And I’m happy for the others who got the award”, he said.

The ARCAN Annual Awards Ceremony serves as a timely reminder of the importance of remembering and celebrating those who uphold the ideals of patriotism, diplomacy, and integrity Nigeria as a Nation.

Olusola Akintonde