President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s ambassador to the United Nations has been hailed as a strategic diplomatic success, with the Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) commending the move for already yielding significant international results. The group’s president, Tomi Aregbesola, made the statement after a courtesy visit to Ambassador Ibrahim at Nigeria House in New York, where she praised his leadership and the rapid enhancement of Nigeria’s global diplomatic standing.
In just 60 days since taking office, Ambassador Ibrahim has elevated Nigeria’s influence within the UN system, according to OAN. His election as chairman of the UN General Assembly’s Fifth Committee — the body responsible for budgetary and administrative matters — marks a major diplomatic achievement. This position gives Nigeria a central role in shaping the UN’s financial and operational policies, enhancing its voice in global governance.
OAN also highlighted the election of Olufemi Elias to the United Nations International Law Commission, a prestigious body that contributes to the development of international law. This appointment, the group noted, reflects global recognition of Nigeria’s legal expertise and commitment to international standards. Additionally, Nigeria’s selection to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women for the 2027–2030 term, led by Esther Eghobamien-Mshelia, further underscores the country’s growing role in human rights advocacy.
Another key development welcomed by OAN is the appointment of Ahunna Eziakonwa as the UN secretary-general’s special adviser on Africa. This role positions Nigeria at the heart of UN discussions on continental issues, reinforcing its leadership on the African continent. The OAN leadership sees these appointments as evidence of Nigeria’s rising stature in international affairs and a direct result of President Tinubu’s merit-based appointments.
Ms Aregbesola urged the president to extend this approach to other critical positions, especially within agencies that engage the diaspora. She specifically called for the appointment of accomplished Nigerians to lead the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, emphasizing that such moves would strengthen ties between the government and the diaspora community. This, she argued, would foster greater collaboration and support for national development initiatives.
Ambassador Ibrahim’s pledge of support for OAN’s programmes, including the annual Nigerian Independence Day Parade in New York, was also commended. The visit reinforced mutual commitment to promoting Nigeria’s interests abroad and celebrating national identity. As Nigeria continues to assert itself on the global stage, these diplomatic wins are seen as milestones in building a more influential and respected international presence.
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