2024 Strategic Speakers

Ambassador Nicholas Agbo Ella, a distinguished diplomat and legal professional,
boasts a multifaceted career in law, diplomacy, and international relations. Born on April 11, 1965, in Ogene-Amejo, Benue State, Nigeria, he showcases a commitment to excellence throughout his journey in the Nigerian Foreign Service and legal practice.

Ella obtained his LL. B from Ahmadu Bello University in 1988 and later pursued a master's in international relations at Monash University, Australia, in 1998.
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, he earned another master's in law from the
ICFAI University, Hyderabad, India, in 2005. After being called to the Nigerian Bar inDecember 1989, he practiced law during his National Service in Ilorin and Lagos, refining his skills under the mentorship of notable figures.

In 1993, Ella joined the Nigerian Foreign Service, embarking on a distinguished
diplomatic career with postings at the UN Office in Geneva, the Nigeria High
Commission in New Delhi, and the Embassy of Nigeria in Beijing. Notably, he served in various capacities in New York and Yaoundé, Cameroon, and later as the Charge d'Affaires in Dakar-Senegal. His leadership abilities and wealth of experience led to his appointment as the Federal Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu on November 27, 2023.

Ambassador Ella's commitment to academia is evident in his research work on
ECOWAS' intervention in Liberia. Proficient in Idoma, Hausa, and English, his
linguistic skills enhance his effectiveness in diverse international settings. Beyond his professional achievements, Ella enjoys reading, playing badminton, and listening to music. Married with children, he assumed office as the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources on January 22, 2024, demonstrating unwavering dedication and leadership in shaping Nigeria's diplomatic landscape.