Prominent figures from various sectors in the country have continued to extend their heartfelt congratulations to Ambassador Olusola Enikanolaiye on his recent appointment as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
This recognition underscores the significant leadership qualities that Enikanolaiye has demonstrated throughout his career.
Leading the celebrations is the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Walson-Jack, who commended Enikanolaiye’s exceptional capabilities and vision as a bureaucrat and leader. She is joined by fellow members of the Federal Executive Council, all of whom are eager to see the positive impact of Enikanolaiye’s leadership in the ministry.
Two former Foreign Affairs Ministers, Ambassadors. Yusuf Tuggar and Bagudu Hirse, publicly expressed their support and admiration for the new Minister of State, reflecting the respect and trust that seasoned diplomats place in their successor.
Also, distinguished personalities such as Prof. (Mrs.) Viola Onwuliri and Ambassador Zubair Dada, both of whom served as Ministers of State for Foreign Affairs, have reached out with their congratulations, recognising the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the new minister.
Adding weight to the chorus of commendation are high-ranking officials from Nigeria’s defence and intelligence sectors. They include a former National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd.); and a former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Rufai Abubakar. They both praised Enikanolaiye for his appointment, highlighting the importance of discernible diplomatic direction in ensuring national security.
A former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Prof. Stephen Ocheni, who previously served as Minister of State for Labour, have also voiced their support.
Prominent among those congratulating Enikanolaiye is the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, who, along with several current Ministers including Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Bianca Odumegu-Ojukwu; Communications and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola; Dr Jumoke Oduwole of Industry, Trade and Investment; and Abass Balarabe of the Federal Ministry of Environment, have all expressed their best wishes for his success in the ministry.
Support also came from Prince Olusola Akanmode, Chief of Staff to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Disapora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa; a former Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu; and a former Provost Marshal of the Nigerian Army, Major General Olumuyiwa Aiyenigba (rtd.).
In addition to politicians and military leaders, the media has shown its support, with the Senior Vice Chairman/Editor-in-Chief of Leadership newspapers, Azu Ishiekwene; and former Managing Director of Daily Trust newspapers, Akogun Isiaka Ajibola sharing their congratulatory messages. Members of the Council of Retired Permanent Secretaries such as Dr. (Mrs.) Derek Awosika, Dr. (Mrs.) Timi Koripamo Agary, Dr. (Mrs.) Remi Aribisala, Dr. Goke Adegoroye, among others have also sent messages of endorsement, adding to the overwhelming support for Enikanolaiye.
Traditional rulers, including the Agbana of Isanlu, Oba Moses Etombi; the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun; Obaro of Kabba, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniy, and the Oba of Ejuku, Oba Funso Ayeni, among others, have also extended their congratulations, demonstrating that Enikanolaiye’s appointment resonates throughout all levels of society.
