ABUJA – The newly appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, has officially assumed duty at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pledging sweeping reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic service, improve foreign policy delivery and boost the country’s global influence.
Enikanolaiye arrived at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday and was received by the Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, alongside top management staff and directors.
He later held a brief meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, before a reception was organised in his honour.
Speaking at the event, Dunoma Umar Ahmed congratulated Enikanolaiye on his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a reward for decades of distinguished service and dedication to Nigeria’s diplomatic corps.
The Permanent Secretary noted that Enikanolaiye’s vast experience, which includes serving as Permanent Secretary and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations, would add tremendous value to the ministry’s operations.
He expressed confidence that the new minister would help advance Nigeria’s economic diplomacy agenda, strengthen the protection of Nigerians abroad and enhance the country’s standing on the global stage.
A senior presidential aide also hailed the appointment, describing it as well-deserved and a reflection of Enikanolaiye’s professionalism and outstanding contributions to public service.
In his acceptance remarks, Enikanolaiye thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and described his return to the ministry as emotional and significant, having spent more than three decades rising through the ranks of Nigeria’s foreign service.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to a foreign policy driven by national interest, peace and security, economic growth, democratic values and the welfare of Nigerians everywhere.
According to him, protecting Nigerians abroad will remain a top priority, while Africa will continue to occupy a central place in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.
The minister also promised reforms aimed at boosting professionalism, innovation and efficiency within the ministry, stressing that stronger coordination would be required to meet Nigeria’s expanding international responsibilities.
He assured staff of close collaboration with Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Permanent Secretary Dunoma Umar Ahmed and other stakeholders to reposition the ministry for greater effectiveness.
Acknowledging challenges such as funding constraints and staff welfare concerns, Enikanolaiye pledged to work with relevant authorities to improve working conditions and boost morale.
He, however, warned that while excellence and hard work would be rewarded, indiscipline and misconduct would not be tolerated.
Calling for unity and renewed dedication among ministry staff, the minister urged officers to embrace professionalism and excellence as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its voice and influence in global affairs.
