By Jane Okeke
Professor Ibrahim Gambari, one of Nigeria’s most respected diplomats and scholars, has been appointed Distinguished Visiting Scholar at the Center for Africana Studies, University of Pennsylvania, United States.
The Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development (SCDDD), which Gambari founded, announced the development in Abuja on Monday.
According to the Centre’s Executive Director, Ambassador Sani Saulawa Bala, the appointment recognises Gambari’s decades-long contributions to diplomacy, scholarship and international public service.
“This prestigious appointment demonstrates the global recognition of Professor Gambari’s intellectual contributions and his lifelong commitment to peace, diplomacy and development,” Bala said.
The appointment was formally conveyed by Professor Wale Adebanwi, Director of the Center for Africana Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, in a letter dated February 13, 2026.
The tenure began on January 1, 2026 and will run through August 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension.
During the period, Gambari is expected to engage students, researchers and policymakers on issues relating to governance, diplomacy and international cooperation.
Bala explained that Gambari’s role would also promote the founding ideals of the Savannah Centre.
“The Savannah Centre was established to advance diplomacy, democracy and development as key pillars for building a peaceful and prosperous global community,” he said.
He added that Gambari’s presence at the University of Pennsylvania would provide valuable opportunities for scholars interested in Africa’s political and developmental trajectory.
The University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, is widely regarded as one of the leading academic institutions in the United States.
Its Center for Africana Studies has become an important intellectual hub for research on African and African diaspora history, culture and contemporary development.
Professor Gambari’s appointment therefore reinforces the growing global interest in African scholarship and leadership in international governance.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Gambari has served in numerous influential roles both within Nigeria and internationally.
He began his academic journey at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he rose to become a professor of political science.
He later served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs before being appointed Nigeria’s Minister of External Affairs.
Gambari also served as Nigeria’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
At the UN, he rose to the rank of Under-Secretary-General, working closely with four successive Secretaries-General.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu once described Gambari’s public service as “iconic national service.”
According to the Savannah Centre, Gambari’s career has also seen him work with seven Nigerian heads of government across different political eras.
The organisation expressed pride in the appointment and congratulated its founder on the international recognition.
“We are confident that Professor Gambari will continue to inspire scholars and diplomats around the world through his scholarship and leadership,” Bala said.
