Angola to honour Gambari with peace, development medal
The government of Angola has announced plans to decorate Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, with the prestigious Peace and Development Medal in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding in Angola. The decoration will take place during the official ceremony marking the 50th Anniversary of […]
Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, President Buhari’s Chief of Staff
The government of Angola has announced plans to decorate Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, with the prestigious Peace and Development Medal in recognition of his contributions to peacebuilding in Angola.
The decoration will take place during the official ceremony marking the 50th Anniversary of Angola’s independence, scheduled for November 6, 2025.
In a formal notification dated October 30, 2025, the Embassy of the Republic of Angola in Nigeria, Benin, Niger, and ECOWAS conveyed the message to Professor Gambari, stating that the honour was being conferred on behalf of President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço.
“The Embassy of the Republic of Angola has the honour to inform you that, on behalf of His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, you have been selected to receive the Peace and Development Medal,” the letter read.
The Embassy described the medal as a symbol of “deep gratitude and recognition” of Gambari’s vital role in advancing the peace process in Angola through his work with the United Nations. It also acknowledged the “enduring support and solidarity of the Nigerian people in Angola’s journey toward national sovereignty and sustainable development.”
Professor Gambari, who served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and later as Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, played a significant role in diplomatic efforts across Africa, including conflict resolution and peace negotiations in Angola during the country’s post-civil war recovery.
The Peace and Development Medal is one of Angola’s highest honours, reserved for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country’s stability, development, and international partnerships.
The Embassy concluded its letter by reaffirming its respect and appreciation for Gambari’s legacy, stating:
“The Embassy of the Republic of Angola avails itself of this opportunity to renew to Your Excellency the assurances of its highest consideration.”
The 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence is expected to attract dignitaries from across Africa and beyond, as the country reflects on its journey from colonial rule to sovereignty and development.