Tinubu Approves Fani-Kayode's Switch to South Africa Envoy

President Bola Tinubu has approved the redeployment of Femi Fani-Kayode as Nigeria's ambassador-designate to South Africa, following Fani-Kayode's personal request to switch from his initial posting to Germany.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Fani-Kayode, a former Nigerian minister of aviation, explained that he formally requested the change two days after the original announcement of his appointment to Germany. He cited personal reasons, including his long residence in Europe and a preference for South Africa, which he described as having Africa's largest economy, closer ties to Nigeria, and a foreign policy aligned with his pan-African vision and political convictions.

"I would rather serve in a country that shares some of my convictions, beliefs and values when it comes to world affairs," Fani-Kayode said. He noted that then-Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar considered the request favorably and forwarded it to Tinubu, who granted approval. Fani-Kayode expressed gratitude to both Tinubu and Tuggar, as well as to Senator Sam Enang, who had been designated for South Africa and agreed to swap positions with Germany.

The announcement addresses recent reports claiming Germany...