Former foreign ministers, retired diplomats, ex-members of the Federal Executive Council and senior military officers have expressed support for the appointment of Ambassador Audu-Rafiu Olusola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

The endorsements came from several prominent figures and institutions within Nigeria’s diplomatic and policy community, who described the appointment as a strategic move capable of strengthening the country’s foreign relations and international engagements.

Among those who reportedly commended the appointment were former Foreign Affairs Minister Bolaji Akinyemi and former military administrator and diplomat Ike Nwachukwu, both of whom described Enikanolaiye as an experienced and committed public servant.

Former Chief of Defence Staff Gabriel Olonisakin and former Health Minister Eyitayo Lambo also praised the appointment, citing his years of service and expected contributions to Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.

Retired naval officers Mackson Makanju Kadiri and Murtala Bashir similarly described the appointment as timely and beneficial to Nigeria’s diplomatic interests.

Several institutions, including the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Society for International Relations Awareness and the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria, also conveyed congratulatory messages expressing confidence in Enikanolaiye’s competence and integrity.

Other organisations and academic institutions, including Federal University Lokoja and Kogi State University, joined in the commendations, highlighting what they described as widespread confidence in his leadership abilities.

At the community level, the member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, Leke Abejide, alongside groups such as the Ife-Olukotun Descendants Union and the Okun Development Association, also celebrated the appointment.

In a separate message, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, described Enikanolaiye as a distinguished diplomat and humanitarian who had contributed significantly to public service and youth development.

The university also referenced the establishment of the Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence at Kogi State University, noting that the initiative was aimed at promoting educational advancement and supporting students.

According to the institution’s spokesperson, Tade Oshaloto, the scholarship programme reflects Enikanolaiye’s commitment to education and long-term national development.