Nigeria Appoints Femi Fani-Kayode as Ambassador to South Africa
Femi Fani-Kayode, the former aviation minister, has confirmed his appointment as Nigeria’s next ambassador to South Africa. He emphasized that this decision stems from a personal choice and refuted claims that Germany had rejected his earlier nomination.
In a statement released on Thursday, Fani-Kayode revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved his transfer to South Africa after he requested a change from his original assignment in Germany.
Fani-Kayode expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am pleased to announce the President’s gracious approval of my appointment as the next Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa.” He explained that his request was motivated by personal reasons and a desire to be posted within the African continent.
Having spent much of his life in Europe, he shared his excitement about moving to South Africa, a nation he has yet to visit but finds intriguing. “I would like to serve in a country that aligns with my ideological leanings regarding world affairs and Pan-Africanism,” he stated.
Furthermore, he highlighted his preference for serving in a nation that reflects his beliefs and values towards global issues. He noted South Africa’s status as the largest economy in Africa, its strong ties to Nigeria, and its compatibility with his political views.
Fani-Kayode mentioned that his request for reassignment was submitted two days after the initial appointment announcement. He thanked Yusuf Tughaa, the Foreign Minister, for considering the request favorably and forwarding it to President Tinubu for final approval.
In light of rumors regarding a refusal from Germany, the ambassador-designate categorically denied these allegations, labeling them as falsehoods. He criticized anonymous sources for disseminating what he termed “irresponsible and offensive” content, claiming it was aimed at damaging his reputation.
“This story is not just irresponsible; it is a complete fabrication rooted in hearsay,” he asserted, adding that he believes the report was intentionally crafted to undermine his career. Fani-Kayode has filed a petition with relevant security agencies and instructed his legal team to pursue defamation charges.
He recounted that a diplomatic communication from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to South Africa was leaked and misrepresented, creating a false narrative that he had been rejected by Germany. “If such a formal rejection occurred, I would demand documentation. That has never happened,” he insisted.
To clarify ongoing concerns, he felt it was essential to set the record straight. “With hope, I look forward to serving as Nigeria’s ambassador to South Africa, a country I deeply admire for its compelling and inspiring history,” he concluded.
