Bolaji Akinyemi, Nigerian political scientist, academic, and politician

Professor Akinwande Bolaji Akinyemi, born on 4 January 1942, is a distinguished Nigerian academic, diplomat, and statesman. Renowned for his profound insights into international relations and governance, he has significantly contributed to both Nigeria's foreign policy landscape and its intellectual discourse.

Academic Foundation and Influence

Before his prominent role in government, Professor Akinyemi established himself as a pre-eminent scholar of political science. He pursued his higher education in the United States, earning his Bachelor of Arts from Temple University, Philadelphia, and his Master's and Ph.D. from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University. His extensive academic career saw him serve as a Professor of Political Science at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria's premier university. Prior to his ministerial appointment, he held the influential position of Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) from 1975 to 1983, where he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria's foreign policy research and discourse.

Transformative Leadership as External Affairs Minister

From 1985 to late 1987, Professor Akinyemi served as Nigeria's External Affairs Minister under the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. His tenure was marked by a dynamic and assertive foreign policy approach, aiming to elevate Nigeria's standing on the global stage. He is particularly remembered for pioneering innovative concepts and initiatives:

• Concert of Medium Powers: Akinyemi championed the idea of a "Concert of Medium Powers," a strategic alliance of influential developing nations (including countries like India, Brazil, Indonesia, and Nigeria) intended to create a powerful bloc that could collectively advocate for their interests and challenge the dominance of major global powers. This initiative, sometimes controversially dubbed the "Black Bomb," underscored Nigeria's aspiration for a more equitable global order.
• Economic Diplomacy: He was a strong proponent of "economic diplomacy," integrating economic considerations into Nigeria's foreign policy objectives to promote trade, attract investment, and advance national development.
• Assertive Pan-Africanism: His foreign policy also reinforced Nigeria's commitment to Pan-Africanism, advocating for African liberation, economic integration, and a stronger African voice in international affairs.

His distinctive and often bold approach to diplomacy, though at times controversial, fundamentally reshaped Nigeria's engagement with the international community during that period.

Continuing Influence and the National Think Tank

Following his ministerial role, Professor Akinyemi has remained a highly respected voice in Nigerian and international affairs. He continues to contribute significantly to national discourse and policy formulation. He currently serves as the Chairman of the National Think Tank, a prestigious advisory body comprising eminent Nigerian professionals, academics, and public figures. This institution plays a crucial role in providing strategic insights, policy recommendations, and intellectual leadership on critical national issues, ranging from governance and security to economic development and international relations. His leadership of this body underscores his ongoing commitment to Nigeria's progress and stability and reflects his enduring influence on policy discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Professor Bolaji Akinyemi

When was Professor Bolaji Akinyemi born?

Professor Akinwande Bolaji Akinyemi was born on 4 January 1942.

What was Professor Akinyemi's primary role in the Nigerian government?

He served as Nigeria External Affairs Minister from 1985 to late 1987, during which he championed notable foreign policy initiatives like the "Concert of Medium Powers."

What is the National Think Tank and Professor Akinyemi's role in it?

The National Think Tank is an influential advisory body in Nigeria that provides strategic insights and policy recommendations on key national issues. Professor Akinyemi currently serves as its Chairman, leveraging his extensive experience in diplomacy and governance.

What is the "Concert of Medium Powers" concept?

The "Concert of Medium Powers" was Professor Akinyemi's foreign policy initiative proposing an alliance of influential developing nations to collectively advocate for their interests and counterbalance the power of major global players. It aimed to foster a more equitable international order.