Former Nigerian Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode has formally received his Letters of Credence, the final step before he assumes duties as Nigeria's High Commissioner to South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. The credentials were presented on Monday by Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, following the granting of agrément by the host countries.
Next Steps: Presentation to President Ramaphosa
Fani-Kayode confirmed that he will travel to Pretoria to present his letter of credence to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. “I shall begin the process of reporting to Pretoria, presenting my letter of credence to His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and starting the great and important work that lies ahead,” he said.
This appointment marks Fani-Kayode's return to federal service after two decades. He previously served as Minister of Aviation under President Olusegun Obasanjo. He described the role as a divine opportunity to serve Nigeria once more, stating, “My gratitude goes to our leader President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence he has reposed in me and I covet the prayers of all men and women of goodwill. The Lord alone shall take the glory for this and He shall do great things. He is faithful!”
Mixed Reactions Online
The announcement drew varied responses on social media. @nze_Anambra expressed concern: “An ethnic bigot and a divisive character was sent to South Africa to represent Nigeria in this critical period of xenophobic crisis. He is likely going to work for or against one ethnic group or the other over there. The remaining Nigerians in South Africa should be careful.”
@Sanchyoloye struck a measured tone: “Diplomacy is measured by outcomes, not appointments. The real test is whether he can strengthen Nigeria's influence, protect its citizens, and deepen strategic ties across Southern Africa.”
@drbak_ acknowledged the weight of the task: “He certainly has a lot to sort out in his plate with the government of South Africa, given the not too good relationship between Nigeria and the country. Congratulations to him, and wish him all the best, as he's embarking on the enormous tasks and responsibilities.”
@7leky expressed confidence in Fani-Kayode's temperament: “Yes I think he will be able to deal with the South Africans xenophobia...he is a tough guy.”
@jpobiokafor offered a lighter take: “Hahaha. This man don suffer for Nigerian's hand. So finally, he has been cleared.”
@akinwale_cfi wrote: “May God Almighty protect him and guide him - Na kuku strong man!”
Background: Fani-Kayode on Tinubu
Previously, Legit.ng reported that Fani-Kayode described President Bola Tinubu as “akanda eniyan,” meaning “special one,” asserting that Tinubu is not an ordinary human being. In an article shared on X (formerly Twitter) on May 10, he said the “secret” of Tinubu's success is that “unlike others, he rewards and builds up his supporters and loyalists and does not seek to denigrate, humiliate, crush or destroy them.”
