Femi Fani-Kayode has announced that he has received presidential approval for his posting as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa, following an initial announcement that had listed him for deployment to Germany. He explained that the reassignment came after he formally requested a redeployment based on personal and professional considerations.

According to him, he had informed the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, that he was not comfortable with the initial posting to Germany and instead expressed preference for South Africa, citing personal interest in the country, its strategic importance in Africa, and its alignment with his views on Pan-African foreign policy.

He stated that his request was favourably considered by the Foreign Affairs Ministry and subsequently approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He also acknowledged the role of Senator Sam Enang, who was originally designated for South Africa but reportedly agreed to a swap that facilitated the new arrangement.

Addressing reports circulating in the media, Fani-Kayode rejected claims that Germany had declined his posting, describing them as false and misleading. He alleged that such reports were deliberately fabricated and has threatened legal action against the media outlet involved, stating that petitions have been submitted to security agencies and his lawyers have been instructed to pursue defamation proceedings.

He added that he remains grateful to the President and the Foreign Affairs Minister for approving his redeployment, and expressed readiness to serve in South Africa, which he described as a country he respects and admires, particularly for its historical and regional significance.