By Peace Udugba
Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode has received his Letters of Credence, completing the final diplomatic process before assuming office as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa, with concurrent accreditation to Lesotho and Eswatini.
Fani-Kayode disclosed the development in a statement shared on his verified X account on Tuesday, describing the appointment as a privilege and an opportunity to serve Nigeria once again.
According to him, the presentation of the Letters of Credence followed the successful receipt of agrément from the South African government, completing the diplomatic requirements before taking up his new assignment.
He said the documents were presented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I am honoured to have received my Letters of Credence to serve as the High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of South Africa, the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Kingdom of Eswatini,” Fani-Kayode said.
He stated that his next step would be to travel to Pretoria, where he would formally present his credentials to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa before officially assuming diplomatic duties.
“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 added.
Reflecting on his return to public service, Fani-Kayode noted that the appointment came nearly 20 years after he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation. He described the opportunity as an act of divine favour and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him.
He also appealed for prayers and support as he prepares to lead Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa while overseeing bilateral relations with Lesotho and Eswatini.
