The death of one of the first-generation Nigerian career diplomats has been announced by the family.
According to a statement sent to NewsmakersNG, Ambassador Olusola Sanu OFR died on March 21, two days to his 92nd birthday.
The statement says, “With sincere gratitude to God and hearts full of praise, the entire Sanu Family of Beyerunka, Ibadan announce the Passing to Glory of our Patriarch, Husband, Father, and Grandfather, Ambassador Olusola Sanu OFR, on 21st of March 2022.
“Ambassador Sanu was one of the first-generation Nigerian career diplomats. He started as a Foreign Service Cadet in 1958. He rose as Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Nigeria (1962 – 1965) at the United Nations to become Nigeria’s Ambassador to several countries including the USA, China, Australia, Ethiopia, and Belgium. He had a distinguished diplomatic career serving Nigeria across the globe.
“He was also an academic who served as visiting Professor at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University). His published works include Nigeria, Africa, and European Union: Beyond 2000 and Audacity on the Bound, his autobiography.
“A true son of Ibadan, he was conferred with the title Bashorun Bobajiro of Ibadanland and was Chairman of Ibadan Elder’s Forum. He supported his people generously and devotedly.
“Ambassador Sanu was a man of profound integrity, faith, and honesty. His warmth and humor were endearing, and he enriched lives distinctly with his wise counsel, generosity, and charming disposition.
“Ambassador Sanu loved his Family unequivocally and was the true epitome of a family man. He is survived by his wife, Chief Irene Abayomi Sanu, children, and grandchildren.
“His passing will be celebrated in the true style of the life he lived, humbly and with dignity. Burial arrangements will follow shortly.
“To all who were part of his life, we the family say thank you and Shalom.”
Mr. Olajide Sanu signed the statement on behalf of the Sanu Family.
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