Abuja, Nigeria — Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye has officially assumed office as Nigeria’s new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, pledging deep-seated institutional reforms to restore professional excellence to the country’s diplomatic corps.
The veteran diplomat took charge at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
Mr. Enikanolaiye, who previously served as the ministry’s permanent secretary and most recently as a senior foreign policy adviser to the president, returns to familiar territory. His career in the foreign service spans over three decades, during which he rose through the ranks from an entry-level third secretary.
Upon his arrival, he held a private meeting with the substantive minister of foreign affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, before addressing ministry officials at a reception held in his honour.
In his maiden address, Mr. Enikanolaiye underlined that the protection and welfare of Nigerian citizens globally would remain central to the nation’s foreign policy. He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s traditional focus on African affairs, stating that the country’s peace and prosperity are inextricably linked to the wider continent.
“The expectations of Nigerians, Africa, and the international community remain high,” Mr. Enikanolaiye said, calling for a proactive and globally competitive foreign service.
However, the new minister faces immediate internal hurdles. He acknowledged long-standing challenges within the ministry, including severe funding constraints and widespread concerns over staff welfare and low morale.
Promising to explore “innovative solutions” to address the budget deficit, he warned staff that while exceptional performance would be rewarded, indiscipline and conduct inconsistent with the values of the foreign service would not be tolerated.
The ministry’s permanent secretary, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, welcomed the appointment, stating that Mr Enikanolaiye’s vast institutional knowledge would be vital in advancing Nigeria’s economic diplomacy and international standing.
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