The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has celebrated Femi Fani-Kayode’s assumption of duty as Nigeria’s ambassador to South Africa, describing his diplomatic assignment as a source of pride to Ile-Ife, the Yoruba people and the country.
Oba Ogunwusi expressed confidence in Fani-Kayode’s ability to represent Nigeria’s interests effectively and strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two African countries.
His message was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by Sodiq Lawal, senior media officer at the Ooni’s Palace, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Moses Olafare.
Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation and indigene 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 marking the commencement of his diplomatic assignment.
According to the statement, Fani-Kayode described his posting as the first appointment of a substantive Nigerian ambassador to South Africa in four years.
Reacting to his assumption of duty, Oba Ogunwusi, who is the co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria and permanent chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, said the development represented a significant moment for Ile-Ife, Nigeria and the Yoruba people.
He noted that Fani-Kayode’s emergence on the international diplomatic stage reflected the capacity of an illustrious son of Ile-Ife to contribute to national development and represent the country beyond its borders.
The monarch expressed optimism that the ambassador would draw on his experience in public service, political engagement and international relations to advance Nigeria’s interests and deepen bilateral cooperation with South Africa.
He urged Fani-Kayode to leverage his diplomatic position to promote friendship, mutual understanding and stronger cooperation between both countries.
Ooni further expressed confidence that the ambassador would discharge his responsibilities with distinction, patriotism and commitment to national development.
He wished Fani-Kayode a successful and rewarding tenure, praying for divine wisdom, protection and guidance in the discharge of his diplomatic responsibilities.
