Former aviation minister says posting change was his personal request, vows legal action over “false and malicious” reports.

Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved his redeployment as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa, following a revision of his earlier posting to Germany.

Fani-Kayode explained that the change was initiated at his request, citing personal reasons for declining the Germany assignment. He said he opted instead for South Africa, describing it as better aligned with his interests in African affairs, his pan-African outlook, and Nigeria’s broader foreign policy priorities on the continent.

According to him, the request was first considered by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who subsequently presented it to President Tinubu for approval. The president, he noted, granted the request. He also acknowledged Senator Ita Enang for agreeing to a swap arrangement that made the redeployment possible.

The former minister strongly rejected reports claiming that Germany declined his nomination, branding them as false, malicious, and aimed at tarnishing both his reputation and that of the Federal Government. He revealed that he has petitioned relevant security agencies and is pursuing legal action against those responsible for the публикаtions.

Fani-Kayode maintained that his new diplomatic posting reflects a personal choice and reaffirmed his readiness to serve Nigeria in South Africa, which he described as a country of significant historical and strategic importance to Nigeria.

He concluded by pledging to represent Nigeria effectively and expressed optimism about commencing his diplomatic duties.