International scholar and Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, underscored the importance of reciprocity in international relations. “Reciprocity is essential for fostering mutual understanding among nations,” he stated.
In his view, mutual respect and exchange form the bedrock of productive global partnerships.
Prof. Gambari who served as Chief of Staff to late President Muhammadu Buhari, spoke as a special guest of honor at the maiden annual symposium organized by the International Studies Alumni Association of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, with support from the MacArthur Foundation.
In a press release on Sunday, Alhaji Abdullahi Shuaibu (aka Dude), National PRO, International Studies Alumni Association, ABU Zaria stated that the event was dedicated to honoring past deans of the university’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), recognized for their contributions to academic debate and excellence.
According to the press release, Prof. Gambari had in his remarks, highlighted the link between domestic strength and a country’s foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of a strong domestic foundation for successful foreign policy. Prof. Gambari also noted that a country’s foreign policy reflects the strength of its economy and its human resources.
“Our approach to international engagement is only as effective as the foundations we build at home,” Prof. Gambari said.
He credited ABU for helping shape his diplomatic outlook. He said, sharing his experiences at Ahmadu Bello University were “instrumental in many of the decisions I made on foreign policy.” He also acknowledged the university for training many of Nigeria’s most accomplished diplomats.
Following Prof. Gambari’s address, other distinguished guests shared their perspectives on the significance of leadership and academic achievement at ABU.
The Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Attahiru Jega, praised the association for celebrating former deans. He described FASS as “a universal community of scholars and literary works.” Jega, who is a former Vice Chancellor of Bayero University and former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said, “Honoring our academic leaders inspires excellence in the generations to come.” He further commended Prof. Gambari for mentoring countless graduates who advanced the study of international relations in Nigeria.
On his part, ABU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanusi Aliyu Rafindadi, highlighted the pivotal role of the Department of Political Science and International Studies in producing the nation’s best diplomats. He also acknowledged Prof. Jega’s leadership as President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), noting, “Prof. Jega changed the luck of academics with his advocacy and dedication.” Prof. Ahmed expressed gratitude to all honorees for their meritorious service to the university.
In his welcome address, Ambassador Muntari Kaita, National President of the International Studies Alumni Association, explained that the event was organized as a gesture of gratitude to their alma mater.
“We believe in giving back to the institution that shaped us,” Kaita said. He also thanked Prof. Gambari and Prof. Jega for serving as Special Guest of Honour and Chairman of the Occasion, respectively.
The symposium featured a lecture titled “African Academic Excellence: Implications for Politics and Development in Africa,” delivered by Prof. David Moveh, who noted that FASS had nurtured a generation of policy thinkers and activists who contributed greatly to Nigeria and the African continent.
“Our faculty has always been a cradle for innovative ideas and transformative leadership,” Prof. Moveh observed. He explained that the Zaria School of History, pioneered by Prof. Abdullahi Smith within FASS, was renowned for organizing thought-provoking seminars and conferences.
Prof. Moveh also emphasized the school’s role in decolonizing African historiography. “Before our efforts, Africa was often seen as without history. But our vision corrected that misconception,” he said, urging the government and stakeholders to prioritize education for the revival of FASS’s golden era.
Transitions between speakers continued with goodwill messages. Dr. Kole Shettima, Director of MacArthur Foundation Africa, commended the recognition of scholars who sacrificed for humanity. He celebrated ABU Zaria’s tradition of diversity, stating, “There is no state in Nigeria unrepresented among ABU students and staff, and our diversity extends to foreign students and lecturers as well.”
His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, expressed his delight at being invited to the event. Represented by the Barden Kerarriyan Zazzau, Arc. Haruna Abubakar Bamalli, the Emir encouraged organizers to maintain the spirit of giving back to the university.
Speaking on behalf of all honorees, Prof. Uka Ezenwe voiced appreciation for the recognition. “We are deeply grateful for this honor,” he responded on behalf of his colleagues.
To mark the occasion, plaques were presented to past deans and notable personalities. In a symbolic gesture, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari unveiled a landmark monument built by the Association to immortalize the deans, concluding the symposium on a celebratory note.
