Ibrahim Gambari, former Nigerian diplomat, appointed visiting scholar at University of Pennsylvania to share expertise in governance, diplomacy, and development

Former Nigerian diplomat and ex-foreign affairs minister, Ibrahim Gambari, has been appointed a distinguished visiting scholar at the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Africana Studies, highlighting his extensive contributions to diplomacy, governance, and academia.

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The appointment, announced by the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development (SCDDD) founded by Gambari took effect on January 1, 2026, and will run until August 31, with the possibility of renewal.

The official offer was communicated via a February 13 letter from Wale Adebanwi, director of the Africana Studies Center.

Founded in 1740, the Center for Africana Studies at the University of Pennsylvania serves as a hub for research on African history, culture, and contemporary development.

Gambari is expected to engage with students and scholars on issues of global governance and diplomacy, while sharing insights from his work promoting democracy and sustainable development through the Savannah Centre.

“The appointment is yet another testament to the global recognition of Professor Gambari’s outstanding contributions to academia, peace and conflict resolution, governance, and development,” the SCDDD said in a statement.

Gambari, a professor of political science and international relations, has served in numerous public roles, including chief of staff to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria’s minister of external affairs, and as ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations.

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The Savannah Centre said Gambari’s engagement at Penn would provide students and scholars from Nigeria and across Africa with invaluable exposure to his experience in diplomacy, governance, and sustainable development.