In a powerful revelation that casts a spotlight on the often-overlooked perils of diplomatic service, a senior Nigerian official has stated that the nation's ambassadors and diplomats confront greater dangers than soldiers on the battlefield. This stark comparison was made by the outgoing Director of Reforms and Renovations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji.
A Call for Recognition and Better Support
Ambassador Bolaji delivered his poignant message on Thursday, December 4, 2025, in Abuja. The event marked a triple celebration: his 60th birthday, his official retirement ceremony, and the public presentation of his new book titled The 7-Star Diplomat. With 35 years of distinguished service in the civil service, Bolaji used the platform to highlight the silent sacrifices of diplomats.
He described diplomacy as one of the most underestimated professions globally. "Diplomats often walk into fires that weapons cannot extinguish," he asserted, emphasizing that while military personnel are rightly honoured, the hazards diplomats face are of a different, often more complex nature. He pointed out that all wars ultimately conclude at the negotiation table, a domain ruled by diplomats.
The Hidden Struggles of an Ambassador
Bolaji did not mince words about the challenges, breaking them down into key areas of concern for serving diplomats.
Lack of Recognition and Remuneration: He noted that military personnel often receive more financial benefits and public acclaim than their counterparts in foreign service. "The remunerations are so poor," Bolaji revealed, dispelling the glamorous illusion of ambassadors riding in sleek cars. He explained that allowances meant for domestic staff at foreign posts are inadequate, and entitlements for staff at home are frequently not received, forcing diplomats to operate in "very murky waters."
Inherent Suspicion and Risk: The ambassador elaborated on the unique peril of the role. "Because you are a suspect in any country, essentially," he stated. Representing one's nation automatically breeds suspicion in host countries, placing diplomats in a constant state of vigilance, even without being formal intelligence officers.
A Vital Link in National Security
Bolaji issued a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to prioritize and give greater attention to the diplomatic corps. He framed national security as a two-pronged effort, equally dependent on soldiers at the frontlines and diplomats managing borders through visa issuance.
He offered a striking example: "The diplomat who is in charge of a mission, who gives approval for visas to be issued, is more dangerous than the man who is chasing a terrorist in the bush. Because if you allow a terrorist to have legal access to a visa, it can cause any havoc."
His new book, The 7-Star Diplomat, serves as both a personal memoir and a practical guide for the next generation. It captures the core values, discipline, and unseen sacrifices of the profession. Bolaji, whose final role was Director of Reforms and Innovation, hopes his writings will instigate positive change within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Peers Laud a Patriot and Reformer
The event saw high praise for Bolaji's career from other distinguished figures. Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Scandinavian countries, Dr. Godknows Igali, described him as a "seven-star diplomat"—tactful, polite, nationalistic, and versatile. Igali commended the book for providing a panoramic view of Nigeria's diplomatic journey over 35 years, calling it an invaluable resource for scholars, students of international relations, and policymakers.
Chairman of the occasion, Kolawole Kareem Agbaje, highlighted Bolaji's rare dedication to Nigeria's national image over personal ambition. "He has strengthened investor confidence globally and upheld Nigeria’s dignity on the world stage," Agbaje said, presenting Bolaji's life as a powerful model of resilience, patriotism, and integrity for young public servants.
The collective testimony paints a picture of a diplomatic service in need of greater institutional support and public understanding, as championed by a veteran who dedicated his life to its reform.
