By Gabriel Ameh
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has honoured Ambassador Oluremi Oluyide, the immediate past Director of the Planning, Research and Statistics Department, at a formal retirement ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in recognition of his long-standing and distinguished service to Nigeria’s diplomatic corps.
The colourful send-off event attracted senior government officials, diplomats, and staff of the Ministry, who gathered to celebrate Ambassador Oluyide’s decades of service at both headquarters and Nigeria’s diplomatic missions abroad.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described Oluyide as a highly competent, disciplined, and professional diplomat. He praised his intellectual contributions and urged younger officers in the foreign service to emulate his dedication and integrity.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, represented by Ambassador Adebayo Adeyemi, also commended the retiring diplomat, describing him as a hardworking, humble, and brilliant officer who contributed immensely to the growth and professionalism of Nigeria’s foreign service.
In her remarks, Ambassador Esther Erewa, Director of the Policy Division, highlighted Oluyide’s lasting impact on policy development and implementation, noting that his leadership helped strengthen institutional capacity within the Ministry.
Goodwill messages from colleagues and dignitaries further celebrated his role as a mentor, strategist, and respected figure in Nigeria’s diplomatic community, with many acknowledging his enduring contributions to national development.
In his response, Ambassador Oluyide expressed gratitude to the Ministry and colleagues 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 national development even in retirement.
The event featured the presentation of awards, cutting of a retirement cake, and a toast in honour of the celebrant, marking the conclusion of a distinguished diplomatic career.
