Tinubu Posts Fani-Kayode To South Africa, Moves Enang To Germany

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the redeployment of former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa after his earlier posting to Germany.

According to reports, the redeployment followed a formal request by Fani-Kayode, who explained that he preferred serving in South Africa due to personal reasons and his long history of living in Europe. He stated that the African nation aligns more closely with his views on foreign affairs, Pan-Africanism, and Nigeria’s diplomatic interests.

The former minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, for approving his request. He also appreciated Ita Enang, who reportedly agreed to exchange his South Africa posting for Germany.

Fani-Kayode dismissed reports alleging that German authorities rejected his appointment, describing the claims as false and malicious. He insisted that the decision to leave the Germany posting was entirely voluntary and not connected to any diplomatic rejection.

He further accused an unnamed online platform of publishing fabricated reports aimed at damaging his reputation, the image of the Federal Government, and the presidency. According to him, legal steps have already been initiated against those responsible for the publication, while security agencies have also been petitioned over the matter.

The ambassador-designate said he remains committed to representing Nigeria in South Africa and expressed admiration for the country’s history and role on the African continent.