By John Dike Osogbo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has expressed pride in former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, as he formally begins his diplomatic assignment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa.
The monarch described Fani-Kayode’s appointment as a significant moment of pride for Nigeria, Ile-Ife and the Yoruba race, expressing confidence that he would use his wealth of experience to strengthen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
The Ooni’s congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare.
Fani-Kayode, an illustrious son of Ile-Ife, recently presented his letters of credence to South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, at the South African Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, formally commencing his diplomatic responsibilities.
The ceremony, which also featured ambassadors from 14 other countries, marked an important development in Nigeria-South Africa diplomatic relations. Fani-Kayode described his posting as the first time in four years that Nigeria had appointed a substantive ambassador to the country.
Reacting to the development, the Ooni, who is the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide and Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), said the development was a source of pride for the country and the people of Ile-Ife.
He noted that having one of the community’s illustrious sons entrusted with the responsibility of representing Nigeria on the international stage was a recognition of his public service experience and contribution to national development.
The traditional ruler expressed confidence that Fani-Kayode would bring his experience in public service, political engagement and international relations to bear on his new assignment, particularly in strengthening the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.
The Ooni also stressed the importance of effective diplomatic representation in projecting Nigeria’s image internationally, protecting the interests of Nigerians living abroad and promoting mutually beneficial partnerships between nations.
He expressed optimism that the ambassador would discharge his responsibilities with distinction, patriotism and unwavering commitment to national development.
The monarch further urged him to use the opportunity to deepen the existing bonds of friendship, cooperation and understanding between Nigeria and South Africa.
The foremost African monarch wished Fani-Kayode a successful and rewarding tenure, praying for divine wisdom, protection and guidance as he undertakes the responsibility of representing Nigeria in the southern African nation.
