The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has congratulated former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, following his successful screening by the Senate as an ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In a congratulatory message conveyed through his representative, Kemade Elugbaju, the revered monarch wished the ambassador-designate success in his new diplomatic assignment and prayed for divine wisdom and guidance as he prepares to serve the country abroad.
The Ooni urged Fani-Kayode, an indigene of Ile-Ife, to represent Nigeria with dignity, integrity and a strong sense of national responsibility, noting that the appointment brings honour not only to the nation but also to the people of Ifeland.
“I join all your well-wishers globally to congratulate you, FFK, on your successful screening by the Senate, acknowledging the honour bestowed upon you and the people of Ifeland,” the statement read.
“Kabiyesi, the Ooni, expresses pride and joy, while wishing you continued success and grace in your new role as Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The palace also highlighted Fani-Kayode’s distinguished lineage, describing his appointment as consistent with a long family tradition of public service. His late father, Chief Remi Fani-Kayode, served as deputy premier of the old Western Region; his grandfather, Adedapo Kayode, was among Nigeria’s early indigenous judges; while his great-grandfather, Emmanuel Kayode, was a Christian missionary credited with introducing social reforms to Ile-Ife.
Oba Ogunwusi further commended Fani-Kayode’s tenure as Minister of Aviation, particularly his appointment of several qualified professionals from Osun State into key positions within aviation parastatals. The palace described the move as evidence of his commitment to capacity building and empowerment of his people.
Expressing confidence in Fani-Kayode’s ability to excel in his new role, the Ooni also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination, describing it as a demonstration of trust and recognition of competence.
Fani-Kayode’s screening forms part of the ongoing Senate confirmation process for ambassadorial nominees nominated to fill vacant diplomatic positions across Nigeria’s foreign missions.
President Tinubu had forwarded a list of 65 ambassadorial nominees to the Senate, including the former aviation minister. In a letter read on the Senate floor on December 4, the president disclosed that 34 nominees were appointed as career ambassadors and high commissioners, while 31 were nominated as non-career ambassadors and high commissioners.
All nominees are expected to undergo Senate screening and confirmation before assuming their respective diplomatic postings abroad.
