Enikanolaiye Assumes Office, Pledges To Strengthen Nigeria’s Global Engagement

The newly appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has assumed duty at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and enhancing the country’s global influence.

Ambassador Enikanolaiye who resumed office on Monday, June 8, 2026, was warmly received at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, alongside senior directors and top management staff.

Upon arrival, the Minister of State was escorted to the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, where both ministers held a private meeting aimed at fostering collaboration and aligning priorities for the effective implementation of Nigeria’s foreign policy agenda.

A statement issued by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said a reception was later organised in honour of the Minister of State, during which the Permanent Secretary congratulated him on his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a recognition of his distinguished career, exceptional professionalism, and decades of dedicated service to the nation.

Ambassador Ahmed noted that Ambassador Enikanolaiye’s appointment brings invaluable institutional memory and diplomatic expertise to the Ministry, having served Nigeria in various capacities, including as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and most recently as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

He expressed confidence that the Minister’s extensive experience would significantly contribute to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, deepening economic diplomacy, protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerians abroad, and strengthening the country’s standing in the international community.

Also speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Operations, Mrs. Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, described the appointment as well-deserved, commending Ambassador Enikanolaiye’s commitment to public service, noting that his contributions in the Presidency had been invaluable.

She expressed optimism that his return to the Ministry would further enhance the implementation of the administration’s diplomatic and international relations agenda.

In his remarks, Ambassador Enikanolaiye expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and thanked God for what he described as a rare privilege to return to the Ministry where he spent over three decades of service, rising from the rank of Third Secretary to Permanent Secretary.

The Minister described his return as both nostalgic and humbling, noting that the appointment represented a continuation of his lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s diplomatic service.

He also appreciated the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, for her warm reception and support, recalling their previous collaboration while he served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations. He pledged his full cooperation and commitment towards achieving the Ministry’s objectives.

Ambassador Enikanolaiye reiterated that Nigeria’s foreign policy remains anchored on the protection of national interests, promotion of peace and security, advancement of sustainable development, strengthening of democratic governance, and safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad.

According to him, the protection and welfare of Nigerians, regardless of their location, will remain at the centre of the country’s diplomatic engagements. He further stressed the importance of maintaining Africa as a priority in Nigeria’s foreign relations, noting that the nation’s peace, security, and prosperity are closely tied to developments across West Africa and the African continent.

Outlining his vision for the Ministry, the Minister of State emphasized the need for teamwork, professionalism, innovation, and institutional reforms. He pledged to work closely with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Permanent Secretary, and all staff members to strengthen the Ministry’s coordinating role in Nigeria’s engagement with the international community.

He also disclosed plans to improve internal systems and processes, restore professional excellence within the foreign service, and build a more proactive, innovative, and globally competitive diplomatic corps capable of effectively advancing Nigeria’s interests on the global stage.

Addressing concerns affecting the Ministry, Ambassador Enikanolaiye acknowledged existing challenges, including funding limitations and staff welfare issues. He assured staff that efforts would be made in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to develop innovative solutions aimed at improving operational efficiency, boosting morale, and enhancing service delivery.

The Minister called on staff members to uphold the highest standards of diligence, discipline, professionalism, and excellence, stressing that outstanding performance would be recognized and rewarded, while actions contrary to the values and regulations of the Foreign Service would not be tolerated.

He concluded by urging all personnel of the Ministry to remain united, focused, and committed to the collective task of advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives, noting that expectations from Nigerians, Africa, and the international community remain high.

Ambassador Enikanolaiye emphasized that through dedication, innovation, and teamwork, Nigeria’s diplomatic service can continue to strengthen the country’s influence, promote national development, and project a positive image of the nation across the world.

PR/Uju Oparaji