From Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
The International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy (ICPD) has successfully completed an intensive capacity-building workshop for protocol officers and practitioners in Yobe State,
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, by ICPD the programme and made available to our correspondent via email, was held from November 26 to 27 2025 in Kano State, Nigeria.
The two-day programme, themed “Strategic Leadership in Protocol, Diplomacy, Governance, and VIP Management”, delivered targeted skills to participants.
The capacity building exercise emphasised ICPD’s mission of raising standards in global protocol and diplomatic engagement.
Distinguished Facilitators and Programme Highlights
Under the expert leadership of Patricia Kenneth-Divine, Director of the International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy (ICPD), the workshop assembled a panel of distinguished facilitators from both local and international spheres.
Each brought unique expertise to the programme, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for all participants.
Agnes Bihari (Hungary): Delivered an insightful session on “Corporate Intercultural Awareness in Protocol Management,” offering strategies for navigating diverse cultural environments within professional protocol settings.
His Worship, Umar Faruk Kabir: As Chief Magistrate and Principal District Court Judge, Katsina State Judiciary, led a discussion on “Governance Principles and Ethical Leadership,” with a focus on upholding integrity and accountability in public service.
Julius Lambert Nyananyo, Mnipr, Mcasson, FIMC, CMC: Founder & Lead Consultant of ST. Lambert Consult Ltd and former Director of Protocol and Information, Bayelsa State Judiciary, presented a session on “Understanding the Principles and Practices of Protocol in National and International Contexts,” equipping participants with a robust framework for protocol application.
Minabai Seibofa, Chief of Protocol at ShieldField Protocol Consultants Ltd and Community Lead of The Global Protocol Circle, delivered practical guidance on “Crisis Protocol and Media Relations,” providing tools for managing emergencies and engaging effectively with the media.
Amb. Buhari Yerima Balla Consultant also served as a resource person and shared insights with participants.
The training equipped participants to confidently apply protocol standards, strengthen ethical leadership, manage VIP engagements, communicate across government levels, exhibit cross-cultural intelligence, and coordinate crisis protocols with effective media relations.
In his opening remarks, Permanent Secretary for Manpower Development, in Yobe, Abbas Isah Bizi who represented the Yobe State Head of Service, highlighted the importance of the programme, stating, “This workshop could not have come at a better time, as our State continues to rise under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Hon. (Dr) Mai Mala Buni.
“Our commitment to staff development and professional excellence in protocol is unwavering.”
He further praised ICPD’s expertise, noting, “This collaboration has been instrumental in advancing our protocol capabilities. The involvement of high-profile facilitators is raising the bar for protocol professionals in Yobe State.”
ICPD, with operational hubs in the UK and partnerships across more than 55 countries, is recognised as a leader in protocol, diplomacy, and leadership development. The organisation provides governments and corporations with tailored training, consulting, and certification, equipping teams to navigate complex global environments with clarity and cultural intelligence. This initiative is part of ICPD’s wider campaign to develop and certify protocol professionals across Nigeria and Africa.
“Organisations seeking to enhance their diplomatic and protocol performance are encouraged to partner with ICPD for high-impact, customised training solutions.
The ICPD is advancing the values and influence within the Protocol and Diplomatic communities engaging with hundreds of professionals.
