I serve Nigeria with dedication, passion because I’ve no other country — Ex-NPA Boss

By  Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna

Former Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority, Ambassador Omar Suleiman has identified dedication and the fear of God as a doorway to the top.

Ambassador Suleiman stated this at the occasion of his Honorary Banquet celebration organised by his family and friends at the weekend to celebrate his Ambassadorial position to the Democratic Republic of Congo. (DRC)

Suleiman, who served as the Managing Director of NPA from December 2010 to July 2012, was nominated by former president, Muhammadu Buhari in 2020 as Ambassador to DRC alongside other 40 nominees.

Speaking at the event, Amb. Omar the Dokaji Adamawa, reiterated that he discharged any role that he is given the opportunity to serve with doggedness, fear of God and total commitment, adding that those who came to celebrate with him serves as a testament of value.

Amb. Omar said, “with retrospect, my journey in life has not been without its challenges. From navigating the complexities of the Nigeria Port Authority to stepping into politics and to the realm of diplomacy, each experience has been a profound learning opportunity. I am grateful for the lessons, experience, the growth, and the chance to serve my country in different capacities thus far.

“I must confess that I am highly surprised with the generosity shown in pooling together this huge sum of money from Friends, Family and Well-wishers to organise this historic event.

“It is a testament not just to your kindness, but to the value you place on me, and the assignments I have been privileged to undertake, both as the former Managing Director of Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and as Nigeria’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Each role discharged has been a privilege and a great responsibility that I have discharged with dedication, fear of God and commitment.

“As I reflected on the years, I am reminded of the guidance and support that most of you seated here to celebrate me rendered to me. Your belief in me has deepened my resolve to renew our friendships and the continued service to humanity.

“I am proud to have had the opportunity to represent our country abroad and to contribute in my own way, to our shared values and goals of progress, peace and diplomacy.”

Present at the event are dignitaries from all walks of life, including the two former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr. Babachir David Lawal, Barr. Boss Mustapha and wife, former MD of NPA, Alh. Bello Gwandu, Chairman of the Occasion, Brig. Gen. Aliyu Kama (Rtd), Former Military Governor of Plateau State, guest speaker was Amb. Jameel Zubairu the State Chief of Protocols (SCOP) and Amb. Hassan Tukur the Private Personal Secretary to President Goodluck Jonathan amongst other prominent personalities.

They attested to the long decades of good relationship with Ambassador Omar Suleiman, whom they described as Nigeria’s patriot to the core, known for commitment, sacrifice and doggedness at workplace.

Highlights of the event were gift presentations and different cultural dances.