Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu will confer national honours on selected Nigerians serving within the United Nations system in recognition of their contributions.
He made the announcement at a dinner organised for members of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNSRC) Nigeria Association held at Nigeria House in New York.
According to him, the current administration is committed to recognising Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in international service and continue to project the country positively across global institutions.
“I can assure you that in the next batch of national honours, some of you here will be recognised for your service to Nigeria and the global community,” he said.
He commended Nigerian professionals working across various UN agencies, describing them as valuable assets to both Nigeria and the international community.
The envoy also suggested that some of them could be considered for key national appointments in Nigeria, including ministerial and agency leadership roles, given their experience and expertise.
He encouraged interested professionals to consider short-term national service opportunities, noting that their skills could contribute significantly to national development.
“You have continued to make Nigeria proud through professionalism, sacrifice and service,” he added.
Amb. Ibrahim also said Nigeria had regained greater relevance in global diplomacy, noting that recent developments at the UN reflected improved international engagement.
He expressed appreciation to UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, for her continued support to Nigeria.
Highlighting Nigeria’s recent diplomatic gains, he cited the appointment of Mrs Ahunna Eziakonwa as Special Adviser on Africa to the UN Secretary-General, as well as Prof. Olufemi Elias’ election to the International Law Commission.
He also noted Nigeria’s leadership role in the UN Fifth Committee on Budgetary and Administrative Matters and confirmed that Nigeria would present a candidate, Esther Eghobamien-Mshelia, for the CEDAW Committee for the 2027–2030 term.
On UN reforms, the ambassador reiterated Nigeria’s call for Africa’s representation on the UN Security Council, stressing that the continent’s population and membership justify permanent representation.
“Africa, with over half a billion people and 54 UN member states, must have a permanent seat,” he said.
He further confirmed that President Tinubu would attend the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly in September, describing it as a reflection of Nigeria’s renewed diplomatic engagement.
Earlier, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, in remarks delivered by Amb. Vivian Okeke, praised Nigerians serving in the UN system, describing them as symbols of resilience, intelligence and diversity.
She also emphasized Africa’s growing influence in global governance and commended Nigeria’s longstanding contributions to peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.
In her remarks, the President of the UNSRC Nigeria Association, Mrs. Foluke Ojelabi, welcomed Nigeria’s increased visibility at the UN and commended the dedication of Nigerian staff members.
She also raised concerns about funding challenges affecting UN operations and personnel welfare.
The UNSRC Nigeria Association comprises Nigerian professionals, diplomats and retirees serving within the United Nations system in New York.