Fani-Kayode Confirms Redeployment to South Africa, Denies German Rejection Reports

Former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode has officially confirmed his upcoming role as Nigeria's Ambassador-Designate to South Africa, a significant diplomatic appointment that he personally requested. This redeployment, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marks a new chapter for Fani-Kayode after his initial posting to Germany was announced. His candid explanation for the switch highlights a desire to serve in a nation that he believes aligns more closely with his foreign policy views and pan-African vision.

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It gives me pleasure to announce the fact that Mr. President has graciously approved my posting as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa.

Fani-Kayode's preference for South Africa stems from its position as Africa's largest economy and its perceived closer ties and shared values with Nigeria. This move underscores Nigeria's strategic diplomatic engagements within the continent. The former minister's clear articulation of his reasons, including his personal comfort and alignment with South Africa's global outlook, provides a unique insight into the considerations behind diplomatic postings.

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I was not comfortable with Germany for a number of personal reasons and given the fact that I had lived in Europe most of my life I would prefer to go to South Africa which is a country that I had never been to and for which I have so much interest.

Crucially, Fani-Kayode used this announcement to vehemently refute claims that Germany had rejected his nomination. He branded these reports as sensationalist, false, and deliberately intended to damage his reputation and that of the Nigerian government. This strong denial and the subsequent threat of legal action against the online publication responsible signal a zero-tolerance approach to what he terms "fake news" and character assassination. This stance reflects a growing assertiveness in managing public perception and combating misinformation within Nigeria's political landscape.

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I will be eternally grateful to Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this favourable consideration.

From a Nigerian perspective, this appointment is viewed not just as a personal achievement for Fani-Kayode but as a strategic placement within a key African nation. The emphasis on shared convictions and economic ties suggests a desire to strengthen bilateral relations and foster closer cooperation on continental matters. The swift and public denial of the German rejection also serves to protect the integrity of the nomination process and the government's foreign policy decisions.

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I take this opportunity to once again confirm that this was my choice and that Germany NEVER formally rejected me, which was a fake report that was published in an irresponsible online magazine that thrives on sensationslism, lies and blackmail.