By Gloria Ikibah
Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye on Monday officially assumed duty as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, marking a return to the ministry where he spent more than three decades rising through the ranks of Nigeria’s diplomatic service.
The seasoned diplomat was received at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, alongside senior directors and officials of the ministry. 
Upon arrival, he held a private meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, before attending a reception organised in his honour.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary described Enikanolaiye’s appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a recognition of his extensive experience, professionalism and distinguished service to the nation.
He noted that the new minister brings deep institutional knowledge acquired through years of service in the foreign ministry, including his tenure as Permanent Secretary and, most recently, as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.
According to him, Enikanolaiye’s wealth of experience would strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements, advance the country’s foreign policy objectives and promote economic diplomacy.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Operations described the appointment as well deserved, praising Enikanolaiye’s dedication to public service and his contributions while serving in the Presidency.
In his remarks, the Minister of State expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility and reflected on the significance of returning to a ministry where he built his career.
He said: “Reflecting on my return to the Ministry where I spent over three decades of service, rising through the ranks from Third Secretary to Permanent Secretary, this moment is both nostalgic and humbling. My appointment is a rare privilege and a testament to God’s faithfulness.”
Enikanolaiye also thanked the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, for the warm reception accorded him and pledged his full cooperation in advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities.
He expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary, directors and staff members of the ministry for their support and goodwill since the announcement of his appointment.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture in line with the strategic priorities of the Tinubu administration.
According to him, Nigeria’s foreign policy remains anchored on the protection of national interests, promotion of peace and security, economic development, democratic values and the welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
He stressed that the protection of Nigerian citizens would remain central to the country’s diplomatic engagements.
“The welfare and protection of Nigerians, both within and outside the country, remain central to the conduct of Nigeria’s foreign policy”, Enikanolaiye said.
He also underscored the importance of maintaining Africa at the heart of Nigeria’s foreign relations, noting the close connection between Nigeria’s stability and that of the wider continent.
“The peace, security, and prosperity of Nigeria are intrinsically linked to those of West Africa and the African continent”, he added.
Outlining his vision for the ministry, Enikanolaiye emphasised the need for teamwork, innovation, professionalism and institutional reform.
He pledged to work closely with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Permanent Secretary and members of staff to strengthen the ministry’s coordinating role in Nigeria’s engagement with the international community.
He also revealed plans to improve internal systems, restore professional excellence and build a more proactive and globally competitive foreign service.
Acknowledging challenges facing the ministry, including funding limitations and staff welfare concerns, the minister assured employees that efforts would be made to explore innovative solutions aimed at boosting efficiency and morale.
He called on officers and staff to embrace diligence, discipline and professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities.
According to him: “Exceptional performance will be recognised and rewarded, while conduct inconsistent with the values and regulations of the Foreign Service will not be tolerated.”
Enikanolaiye therefore call for unity and renewed dedication among ministry personnel as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its influence on the global stage.
“The expectations of Nigerians, Africa, and the international community remain high”, he stated.
He urged staff to remain focused on the collective task of advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and enhancing the country’s standing in international affairs.
The appointment marks the return of one of Nigeria’s most experienced career diplomats to the leadership of the foreign ministry at a time when the government is seeking to deepen economic diplomacy, strengthen regional cooperation and expand the country’s global influence.
