ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode has announced his appointment as Nigeria’s High Commissioner -Designate to South Africa following a diplomatic swap.
In a statement shared via his X handle on Thursday, Mr. Fani-Kayode revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved his redeployment to Pretoria after he expressed reservations about an initial posting to Germany. The move involves a direct exchange with Senator Sam Enang, who was originally slated for the South African post but will now represent Nigeria in Berlin.
A Request for Redeployment
Mr. Fani-Kayode explained that he formally petitioned the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a change in posting shortly after the initial list was released. He cited personal reasons and a desire for a new environment, noting that having lived in Europe for most of his life, he had “so much interest” in a country he had never visited.
“I would rather serve in a country that shares some of my convictions, beliefs, and values when it comes to world affairs,” he said. He highlighted South Africa’s position as the continent’s largest economy and its proximity to his “pan-African vision” as key factors in his request.
Denial of German Rejection
The former minister used the announcement to dismiss reports suggesting that the German government had rejected his credentials. He described the claims as “false and malicious” and designed to embarrass the Federal Government.
Mr. Fani-Kayode confirmed he has instructed his legal team to pursue action against the publications responsible for the reports, insisting that no formal rejection ever occurred.
Strengthening Continental Ties
The appointment comes at a time of significant diplomatic engagement between the two African powers. Mr. Fani-Kayode expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar for the “gracious” approval of his request.
The former minister added that he looks forward to representing Nigeria’s interests in South Africa, focusing on the strong economic and political ties that bind the two nations.
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