The Aboro of Ibese Land, His Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Rotimi Oluseyi Mulero, Arole Asakanran, Olokojobi III, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari on his conferment with Angola’s Peace and Development Medal, one of the nation’s highest honours, presented in Luanda by President João Manuel Lourenço.
The prestigious award recognises Nigeria’s historic and decisive support for Angola’s liberation struggle and celebrates Africa’s shared commitment to unity, solidarity, and the spirit of Pan-Africanism. It equally acknowledges Professor Gambari’s extraordinary contributions to global diplomacy, peacebuilding, and development spanning over four decades.
Professor Gambari, who served as Nigeria’s longest-standing Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1990 to 1999, later became UN Under-Secretary-General and held various strategic roles, including Head of the Department of Political Affairs. He attended the award ceremony in Luanda, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo, also among the honourees, was unavoidably absent.
President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço commended Professor Gambari’s long-standing service, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose work has strengthened peace and development across Africa. The Angolan government had earlier announced him as a deserving recipient of the Peace and Development Medal on account of his historic mediation efforts and commitment to stability on the continent.
As Angola marks 50 years of independence, the honours bestowed on General Murtala Mohammed (posthumously), former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Professor Ibrahim Gambari highlight Nigeria’s towering legacy in African diplomacy—one anchored on courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the liberation and progress of sister nations.
Professor Gambari’s contributions to peace in Angola remain a milestone in African diplomatic history. Serving as the United Nations’ chief mediator following the Lusaka Protocol, he supervised the implementation of the peace accord, coordinated humanitarian assistance to displaced citizens, and championed post-conflict reconstruction through institutional strengthening and human rights advocacy. His exemplary work earned commendation from the late UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, who praised his “tireless efforts and exemplary dedication” to peace and development in Angola.
In his congratulatory message, the Aboro of Ibese Land lauded Professor Gambari as a global icon whose achievements continue to bring pride to Nigeria and inspire the next generation of African leaders.
According to the foremost Ogun monarch, “Professor Gambari’s recognition by Angola is not only a personal honour but a powerful reminder of Nigeria’s historic leadership in African liberation and diplomacy. His lifetime of service reflects the very best of our nation’s values—courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to peace. We are proud to celebrate him.”
The Aboro further urged African leaders and institutions to continue strengthening collaborative efforts that promote peace, security, and development across the continent, noting that the legacy of statesmen like Professor Gambari remains a guiding light for present and future generations.
Signed:
Ogbeni Ajibode Abd’kabir
Director of Media and Public Affairs
Aboro of Ibese’s Palace
Ibese, Yewa North.