In a solemn announcement today, President Bola Tinubu expressed heartfelt condolences to the Ogunsulire family following the demise of the distinguished Ambassador Omotayo Ogunsulire.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, conveyed these sentiments on behalf of the President and the entire nation.
Ambassador Ogunsulire, who departed this world at the age of 93, held a significant role as one of the inaugural 12 recruits into the Ministry of External Affairs in 1957. Specializing in Francophone affairs, he served as a diplomat in Paris and various Francophone African nations, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s diplomatic initiatives.
His illustrious career extended to serving under numerous Nigerian heads of state, including Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Generals Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Mohammed, and Olusegun Obasanjo. Ambassador Ogunsulire concluded his diplomatic service in 1976, choosing to join the United Bank for Africa in his retirement.
President Tinubu, in mourning the passing of this esteemed figure and founding member of Nigeria’s diplomatic establishment, acknowledged Ambassador Ogunsulire’s pivotal role in the nation’s history.
The President praised the late diplomat’s professionalism and unwavering dedication to service, highlighting him as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding envoys.
As a gesture of solidarity, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the bereaved family, expressing sympathy and offering prayers for the peaceful repose of Ambassador Omotayo Ogunsulire’s soul.
