Fani-Kayode Dropped as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Germany, Ita Enang Takes Over

President Bola Tinubu has reportedly replaced former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode with former presidential aide Ita Enang as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Germany, following weeks of controversy surrounding Fani-Kayode’s diplomatic nomination.

Reports emerging on Wednesday indicated that Enang had been selected to replace Fani-Kayode after allegations surfaced that German authorities rejected the former minister’s appointment over concerns linked to his past public comments and conduct.

Fani-Kayode was among the 65 ambassadors and high commissioners whose postings were approved by President Tinubu in March, with Germany initially listed as his destination.

However, controversy erupted after multiple media reports claimed the German government declined to accept his nomination, allegedly citing “erratic behaviour” and previous divisive statements.

The former minister denied the reports, dismissing them as “fake news” and insisting there was no official rejection from Berlin.

A fact-check published by Nigerian Democratic Report also stated that there was no official confirmation from the German government rejecting Fani-Kayode’s appointment, although advocacy groups had petitioned against his posting.

Before the latest development, Ita Enang had earlier been listed among ambassadorial nominees assigned to South Africa.

As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not issued an official statement confirming the reassignment.