Celebrating Ambassador Jaiyeola Joseph Lewu at 80

Ambassador Jaiyeola Joseph Lewu recently celebrated his 80th birthday, prompting a discussion on the value of diplomatic autobiographies. These memoirs, authored by various diplomats, including Ambassadors and High Commissioners, serve as primary sources for understanding global issues, crises, and peace negotiations.

Notable examples include Marie Yovanovitch's "Lessons from the Edge," Eamon Delaney's "An Accidental Diplomat," and several works by Nigerian diplomats such as Amb. Oladele Akadiri's "Diplomacy, World Peace and Security" and Amb.

Peter Layi Oyedele's "My Life Adventure: Memoirs of a Diplomat." The article emphasizes that time and space are critical elements in diplomacy, with diplomats navigating these dimensions in their roles. The functions of a diplomat include representational, protective, and promotive duties, which often come with personal sacrifices and challenges.