STUDENTS of the Department of International Relations at Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria have been advised to develop versatile knowledge and master foreign languages to excel in diplomacy and international relations.
The advice was given by former Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, Akinremi Bolaji, during a virtual conference organised under the course, “African Union in International Affairs.”
The course was coordinated by Musa Abdullahi Sufi.
The virtual session formed part of an academic exercise in which students were grouped into syndicates and assigned the task of engaging serving or retired diplomats for professional experience sharing.
Speaking during the conference, Ambassador Bolaji shared insights into career pathways in diplomacy and international relations, drawing from his years of experience in the Nigerian Foreign Service.
According to him, effective communication, analytical thinking, cultural adaptability and digital literacy are among the critical skills required for modern diplomacy.
The former envoy particularly emphasised the importance of language proficiency, encouraging students to learn French and Spanish in addition to English.
He explained that multilingual ability offers a significant advantage in international engagements and diplomatic assignments.
Bolaji further advised aspiring diplomats to remain informed about global history and contemporary international affairs in order to remain relevant in the evolving global system.
He also urged students to acquire ICT competencies to effectively fit into the growing system of digital diplomacy.
The former ambassador explained that diplomacy should not be seen as the responsibility of government officials alone, noting that citizens also have a role to play in promoting Nigeria’s image and advancing public diplomacy.
The session featured interactive discussions, with students asking questions on bilateral negotiations, back-channel diplomacy and contemporary issues in international relations.
In his remarks, Musa Abdullahi Sufi commended the guest speaker for what he described as an insightful presentation.
He also appreciated the active participation and cooperation of students throughout the session.
Also speaking, Abdulkadir Inuwa Abdulkadir delivered the closing remarks, where he reviewed the major points raised during the lecture and highlighted various areas of specialisation in international relations and diplomacy.
The virtual conference was attended by the President of the university, Mohammed Israr, the Chair of the International Relations Department, Nabila Mohammad Sani, the institution’s Public Relations and Protocol Officer, Hayatuddeen M. Abdallah, as well as more than 50 participants.