Diplomats committed to promoting excellence in diplomacy – ISD director

The International Society of Diplomats (ISD) in Nigeria says it is committed to promoting excellence in diplomacy, enhancing international cooperation, and fostering sustainable peace and development.

Prof. Edet Ekpenyong, ISD Country Director/Head of Mission, said this at the Inaugural Assembly and Induction/Awards Ceremony of ISD in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event titled “Diplomacy and International Cooperation: Pivotal to Sustainable Peace and Development.”

Ekpenyong said that the organisation also aims to create a platform for diplomats, scholars and practitioners in diplomacy to share knowledge, exchange ideas and develop innovative solutions to global challenges.

“We are committed to engaging in thought-provoking discussions, share workable ideas for best practices and explore new approaches to diplomacy.

“We will examine the intersection of diplomacy, international cooperation, and sustainable development, and explore ways to strengthen partnerships, build trust, and promote peace in our host country Nigeria,” he said.

The Secretary General of ISD, Amb. Manuel Fernandez, said Nigeria’s international stature continued to rise under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Fernandez commended Tinubu for his unwavering leadership and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s role in the global diplomatic arena.

“Mr President, your strategic vision for a prosperous and peaceful Nigeria, as well as your proactive foreign policies, have made this country a vital center for diplomatic engagement.

“Under your leadership, Nigeria’s international stature continues to rise, and today, Nigeria stands proudly at the crossroads of diplomacy and international cooperation.

According to him, this inaugural assembly marks not only the beginning of the ISD’s journey in next years, but also the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s diplomatic history.

“As diplomats, it is our shared responsibility to continue to advance the values of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.

“We are entrusted with the duty of building bridges across nations, and Nigeria stands ready to lead these efforts with the support of President Tinubu, the ministers, military, and the distinguished members of the ISD,” he said.

Dr Mathew Ogwuche, Head of Department, Political Science and International Relations, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), diplomacy and international relations were imperative to peace and sustainable development in Africa.

Ogwuche, who described diplomacy as a tool to resolve conflicts and reduce poverty, added that it was also a powerful instrument for fostering cooperation, promoting economic growth.

Dr Isa Yuguda, a former governor of Bauchi State, said Nigeria’s security challenges were domestic issues that required collective efforts to address domestically.

Yuguda, who was the chairman of the occasion, who called for peace and sustainable development in Nigeria, also sought for synergy between Muslims and Christians to curb security challenges bedeviling the country.