Why Enikanolaiye’s Nomination Feels Right, Not Surprising.
By Isiaq Ajibola
When the news broke that Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye had been nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, my first reaction was simple: this feels right.Not surprising, just right.
In a public space where appointments sometimes raise more questions than answers, this one inspires quiet reassurance. It speaks to experience, depth, and, perhaps most importantly, character.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye is not a newcomer to the complex world of diplomacy. He has paid his dues, serving Nigeria with distinction first as Ambassador to India and later as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These are not mere role keeping; they demand strategic thinking, intellectual depth, and a steady diplomatic temperament.
Even after retiring from the Foreign Service as Permanent Secretary, his journey did not slow down. With an intimidating résumé and a depth of knowledge difficult to ignore, he was quickly absorbed into the National Defence College Nigeria as an academic instructor and administrator. That transition was telling, it underscored his ability not just to practise diplomacy, but to teach it.
It was not long before President Tinubu identified that value and brought him back to the centre of policy, appointing him as Special Adviser on Foreign Affairs and International Relations. In that role, he has operated quietly but effectively, helping to shape Nigeria’s diplomatic posture in subtle but meaningful ways.
You could see this in the renewed push to strengthen ties with the United Kingdom, not just for ceremonial engagements, but for real economic outcomes. That engagement has translated into efforts aimed at boosting trade and attracting investments. There is also the broader shift towards what is now widely described as “economic diplomacy”—a deliberate repositioning of Nigeria’s foreign policy to directly support national development, job creation, and investment inflow.
Beyond bilateral relations, his imprint can be seen in Nigeria’s handling of delicate regional issues. At a time of tension within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Nigeria has maintained a pragmatic approach keeping communication channels open with dissenting countries and helping to ease tensions in pursuit of regional stability. These are achievements that may not always make headlines, but they are precisely the kind that strengthen a nation’s standing in a complicated global environment.
Academically, his brilliance was evident early. A First Class graduate in International Relations from Ahmadu Bello University, he distinguished himself as a scholar of uncommon ability. That strong intellectual foundation has clearly shaped the clarity and depth he brings to his work.
But beyond the résumé lies something even more compelling.
Those who know him speak of his clarity of thought. In a system where ambiguity can sometimes pass for sophistication, he stands out for saying things as they are; calmly, respectfully, but firmly. He has a rare ability to break down complex issues with lucidity and logic. You listen to him, and you understand not because the issues are simple, but because he makes them so.
It is therefore not surprising that the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs described him as the “dictionary and encyclopedia of Nigeria’s foreign affairs.” Coming from such a respected institution, that tribute is both fitting and instructive.
Yet, for all his accomplishments, what strikes people most is his simplicity. He is approachable. He listens. He carries himself without airs. In a country where public office can sometimes create distance, he has remained grounded, accessible and genuinely interested in others.
His contributions are not limited to diplomacy alone. Within his community, he has also made his mark. As Chairman of the South East Yagba Development Association in Kogi State, he has helped transform the body into a more vibrant and effective social and cultural platform strengthening unity and giving it clearer direction.
In recognition of his service and standing, he has also been honoured with several chieftaincy titles, further reflecting the respect he commands across different communities.
On a personal note, I have always known him to be a gentleman in the true sense of the word; calm, responsible, and dependable. Not loud, not dramatic, just steady. The kind of person you can trust to carry responsibility without unnecessary noise. And perhaps that is what makes this moment particularly meaningful.
Nigeria’s engagement with the world today requires more than protocol and speeches. It requires individuals who understand the issues, who can communicate clearly, and who are willing to speak truth when it matters.
In Ambassador Enikanolaiye, we have someone who brings together that rare mix of knowledge, clarity, and integrity.
His nomination, therefore, is not just about filling a position. It is about placing responsibility in capable hands.
For his kinsmen in Kogi State, this is a moment of pride. For Nigeria, it is a moment of hope.
I congratulate him warmly and wish him wisdom, strength, and success as he takes on this important national assignment in service of our country.
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(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MAY 1ST 2026)
