Ambassadorial Appointment Divine Opportunity to Serve, Says Fani-Kayode
Nigeria's Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has described his appointment as a divine opportunity to serve the country, expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting him with the diplomatic assignment.
Fani-Kayode made the remarks after receiving his Letters of Credence, the official documents authorising him to represent Nigeria in the three Southern African countries.
The documents were presented on behalf of President Tinubu by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye. Speaking shortly after the presentation, the former Minister of Aviation said he considered the appointment a privilege and a call to national service.
He thanked President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work diligently to advance Nigeria's foreign policy objectives and strengthen bilateral relations with South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini.
Describing the appointment as an act of divine favour, Fani-Kayode said he would carry out his responsibilities with dedication, integrity and commitment while promoting Nigeria's interests abroad.
He also appealed to Nigerians to support and pray for the success of his diplomatic mission, noting that the task ahead requires unity, wisdom and God's guidance.
Fani-Kayode is expected to proceed to Pretoria, where he will formally present his credentials to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa before officially assuming office as Nigeria's High Commissioner.
He will also serve concurrently as Nigeria's representative to the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Eswatini.
His appointment is expected to further strengthen Nigeria's diplomatic, economic and strategic ties with the three Southern African nations, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, regional security, tourism and cultural cooperation.
The ambassadorial posting forms part of the Federal Government's efforts to deepen Nigeria's engagement with key African partners and promote stronger regional collaboration under President Tinubu's foreign policy agenda.
