Former member of the House of Representatives and one-time representative of Ife Federal Constituency, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, has showered praise on Nigeria’s Ambassador to South Africa, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, describing his diplomatic debut in Pretoria as a bold statement of Nigeria’s stature and influence on the African continent.
Reacting to Fani-Kayode’s presentation of his Letter of Credence to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday, Makinde said the former Minister demonstrated remarkable courage and diplomatic poise, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leading voice in Africa and beyond.
According to the former lawmaker, the occasion showcased Fani-Kayode’s readiness to defend Nigeria’s interests and represent the country with distinction on the global stage.
“What happened in South Africa on Friday has strengthened my conviction that Chief Femi Fani-Kayode will excel as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to South Africa. He has shown that Nigeria is not a second fiddle in international affairs and that our nation can speak with confidence and authority wherever it is represented,” Makinde said.
Makinde, who described the envoy as “a true son of Ile-Ife,” expressed confidence that Fani-Kayode would prioritize the welfare and safety of Nigerians living in South Africa, particularly in the face of recurring concerns over xenophobic attacks and security challenges confronting foreign nationals.
He noted that one of the ambassador’s most important assignments would be to ensure stronger protection for Nigerians abroad while engaging South African authorities on issues of transparency, accountability, and justice whenever Nigerian citizens are affected.
Beyond consular protection, Makinde said the new envoy is strategically positioned to reset and strengthen the historic relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, a partnership rooted in decades of solidarity during the anti-apartheid struggle.
The former legislator emphasized the need for sustained diplomatic engagement between both nations to address areas of tension, deepen mutual trust, and expand cooperation across political, economic, and cultural fronts.
“Chief Fani-Kayode’s tenure presents an opportunity to rebuild confidence, strengthen bilateral relations, and advance areas of common interest between Africa’s two largest economies,” he stated.
Makinde further highlighted the importance of expanding trade and investment opportunities between Nigeria and South Africa through existing frameworks such as the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission, while encouraging greater collaboration on continental priorities and global issues.
He also expressed optimism that the ambassador would play a significant role in advancing African interests in international institutions and multilateral platforms.
In an emotional note of support, Makinde revealed that the people of Ile-Ife, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, who entrusted Fani-Kayode with the high-profile diplomatic assignment, are rooting for his success.
“The people of Ile-Ife are proud of you and are praying for your success. We believe you will make Nigeria proud, protect the interests of our citizens, and elevate the country’s reputation on the international stage,” Makinde concluded.
As Chief Femi Fani-Kayode begins his diplomatic mission in South Africa, expectations remain high that his experience, outspoken personality, and political pedigree will translate into stronger Nigeria-South Africa relations and greater protection for Nigerians living abroad.
