Best Diplomats, a global organisation that conducts diplomatic simulations, has appointed Gloria Onahi Uko as its Nigeria Country Representative. Uko, a Benue-born Nigerian, was appointed based on merit and will serve a 16-month tenure. Her appointment was announced in a letter issued by Best Diplomats, which is subject to a 6-month probationary period. During this period, her performance, professionalism, and commitment to the organisation's mission will be assessed.

As Country Representative, Uko will be responsible for representing, promoting, and supporting Best Diplomats' conferences and initiatives in Nigeria. Her responsibilities include engaging with academic institutions, youth organisations, and diplomatic circles to promote participation in the organisation's international conferences. She will also support outreach and public relations activities. Best Diplomats focuses on developing young people and emerging leaders through practical programmes in diplomacy, negotiation, and leadership.

Best Diplomats is a global organisation that conducts diplomatic simulations modelled on institutions such as the United Nations, European Union, and African Union. The organisation's mission is to support youth development worldwide, with a vision centred on bringing people together and protecting the rights and interests of future generations. Its broader objective is to transform individuals, teams, and organisations into diplomats, expert negotiators, and visionary leaders.

Uko's appointment comes ahead of a series of international programmes scheduled across different parts of the world. The organisation's calendar lists conferences in Istanbul, Türkiye, from October 16-19, 2026; London, UK, November 13-16, 2026; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, January 28-30, 2027; New Jersey, USA, March 29-April 1, 2027; Dubai, UAE, May 28-31, 2027; and Geneva, Switzerland, July 19-22, 2027.

Best Diplomats is also scheduled to hold a United Nations Immersion Programme in Geneva, Switzerland, from November 2-6, 2026, in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). The programme is designed to expose participants to international organisations and practical aspects of diplomacy, negotiation, leadership, and multilateralism. The upcoming programmes will address issues including global food security, energy, and digital transformation.

With her new role, Uko is expected to serve as a link between Best Diplomats and Nigerian youths, educational institutions, and other stakeholders interested in international diplomacy, leadership, and global affairs. Before her appointment, Uko had enjoyed foreign scholarships from Best Diplomats to participate in conferences in Dubai and Geneva. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Benue State University and a Master's Degree in International Business and Management from the University of Plymouth.

Uko has a strong background in youth empowerment and has participated in many youth programs within Nigeria and beyond. She was a Member of the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development and a Volunteer with the Committee for Youth Mobilization and Sensitization. Uko also founded the Glorious Outreach Foundation, which carried out several outreaches across northern Nigeria, touching lives and impacting youths.

Key points

  • Gloria Uko's appointment as Nigeria Country Representative of Best Diplomats was based on merit and is subject to a 6-month probationary period.
  • Best Diplomats conducts diplomatic simulations modelled on institutions such as the United Nations, European Union, and African Union.
  • Uko will serve as a link between Best Diplomats and Nigerian youths, educational institutions, and other stakeholders interested in international diplomacy, leadership, and global affairs.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.