President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Ambassador, James Sokoya, describing him as a distinguished career diplomat, patriot, and statesman whose life and service left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s diplomatic history.
In a tribute written by the President on the demise of the Diplomat, the President mourned the passing of Ambassador Sokoya at the age of 94, while celebrating his remarkable life, legacy, and invaluable contributions to nation-building.
President Tinubu said Ambassador Sokoya served Nigeria with uncommon dedication, dignity, and integrity, noting that his diplomatic career was guided by intellect, professionalism, and belief in dialogue as a tool for building trust and bridging divides on the global stage.
President Tinubu also recalled Ambassador Sokoya’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s entry into the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the establishment of the Nigerian Embassy in Vienna, Austria.
The President described the late envoy as a man of profound character, humble, principled, and compassionate, and as a man who mentored younger diplomats and exemplified the finest values of public service.
Sokoya served as Deputy High Commissioner in London and later as Nigeria’s first resident High Commissioner to Jamaica, with concurrent accreditation to Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas.
Born in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, the late diplomat began his public service career in the Old Western Region before Nigeria’s independence in 1960, first as an educator in primary and secondary schools and teacher training colleges across Abeokuta, Ibadan, and Ijebu-Ode.
He later studied Geography at the University of Ibadan before serving in several ministries of the Western Nigerian government, including the Premier’s Office.
In 1962, Ambassador Sokoya joined the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he went on to hold several strategic positions at home and abroad.
His postings included Head of the Asia Department; Chief of Protocol under former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; service at Nigeria’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York; and diplomatic assignments in Mali and Algeria.
On behalf of Nigerians, President Tinubu expressed gratitude for Ambassador Sokoya’s years of devoted service, honouring his memory and the ideals he championed.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the diplomat’s family, friends, and associates, praying that his legacy would continue to inspire a more peaceful, just, and united Nigeria.