By Taiwo Adekanye
The International Relations Alumni Association of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, under the leadership of its president, Mr. Adeyemi Oladimeji, on Saturday, April 4, 2026, hosted a reception in Ibadan in honour of retired Ambassador Akinremi Alade Bolaji for his meritorious service in the Nigerian civil service.
Ambassador Bolaji, who retired on December 4, 2025, was celebrated by the alumni of the International Relations Department of Obafemi Awolowo University, where he obtained both his first and second degrees. The event also served as a reunion of sorts for several old students’ associations, including St. Peter’s Primary School, Iroko Community Grammar School, and Obafemi Awolowo University, all institutions attended by the honouree. It is also noteworthy that Ambassador Bolaji met his beloved wife while attending the defunct Oyo State College of Arts and Science, Ile-Ife.
The occasion drew family members, friends, and well-wishers from both the public and private sectors, adding warmth and significance to the celebration.
The event, held at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, was graced by several notable personalities. As a proud son of Ibadanland, Ambassador Bolaji was honoured by the presence of the wife of the Olubadan, Her Excellency Ayaba Muyibat Ladoja. In her remarks, Ayaba Ladoja gave thanks to God on behalf of the retired diplomat for preserving him throughout his years of service in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She also commended him for representing Ibadanland and Nigeria with distinction in the foreign service.
In recognition of his wealth of experience in bilateral and multilateral trade, and his previous role as Director of Economic Trade and Investment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has appointed Ambassador Akinremi Alade Bolaji as a member of the Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee.
The Olubadan Economic and Investment Committee, chaired by Chief Mrs. Onikepo Akande and Prof. Dapo Afolabi, is tasked with reviving abandoned industries, promoting urban renewal, and stimulating job creation in Ibadanland. The official letter of appointment was presented to Ambassador Bolaji by the Bobajiro of Ibadanland, Chief Tajudeen Aremu, mni.
Among the dignitaries at the occasion were the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who is also an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University; retired Colonel Adenike Akerele; Mr. Oladapo Adebayo, Deputy Director, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, FCDA, Abuja; Otunba Dejo Olawoyin; Chief Mrs. Diekola Ogunlowo nee Bolaji; Engr. Prof. Akinbola Morakinyo; Prof. Soji Adejumo, Ajiroba of Ibadanland; Head of the Department of International Relations, OAU.
The event, put together and sponsored by the alumni, was a memorable outing and a fitting tribute to the personality and accomplishments of the honouree, described by many as a 7-Star Diplomat in whom they are well pleased.
