Germany Never Rejected Me, Says Fani-Kayode as He Explains Swap to South Africa

Former Minister of Aviation and Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, has dismissed reports claiming that Germany rejected his diplomatic nomination, insisting that his redeployment to South Africa was based on personal choice and mutual agreement.

In a statement on his official X account on Thursday, Fani-Kayode said President Bola Tinubu approved his posting to South Africa after he formally requested a change from the earlier diplomatic assignment to Germany. He added that the decision followed consultations with the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Yusuf Tuggar.

He explained that he sought redeployment because he preferred to serve in an African country that aligns more closely with his political and ideological outlook, one that has the continent’s biggest economy, closer ties to Nigeria, and shares his pan-African vision.

The request was submitted two days after the initial announcement of his posting to Germany and was subsequently approved by the President.

Fani-Kayode also disclosed that the redeployment involved a mutual exchange with Senator Sam Enang, who was originally assigned to South Africa but agreed to go to Germany instead.

He strongly rejected claims that Germany turned down his nomination, describing such reports as fake, malicious, and intended to tarnish his image as well as embarrass the Federal Government. He challenged those behind the allegation to produce documentary evidence of any formal rejection, insisting that no such thing happened.

The ambassador-designate accused an unnamed online publication of sensationalism, lies, and blackmail, adding that he had reported the magazine and its operators to relevant security agencies. He also instructed his legal team to commence a civil defamation suit against them.

Fani-Kayode said he looks forward to serving in South Africa, a nation he admires and respects for its remarkable and inspiring history.