By Raphael Oni
Nigeria’s new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has pledged to reward excellence, improve staff welfare and restore professionalism within the Ministry as he officially resumed duty on Monday.
Speaking during his inaugural address at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, Enikanolaiye assured staff that dedication and hard work would not go unnoticed under his leadership.
According to him, “Hard work, diligence and excellence would be rewarded,” while stressing that staff welfare would remain a major priority, adding that “welfare will start from below.”
The seasoned diplomat, who served in the Ministry for over 35 years and rose from the rank of Third Secretary to Permanent Secretary, described his appointment as a rare privilege and a reflection of God’s faithfulness.
“I was filled with deep nostalgia on my way up to this conference room, recalling 35 years spent in this prestigious Ministry rising through the ranks,” he said.
Enikanolaiye pledged to contribute his experience and expertise towards advancing the Ministry’s mandate in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy agenda centred on Democracy, Demography, Development and Diaspora.
The Minister also stressed the need for discipline and professionalism within the Ministry, warning that misconduct and poor performance would not be tolerated.
“In the same manner, those who fall below our expected standards would be treated in accordance with extant regulations that provide zero tolerance for indiscipline, indolence and unprofessional conduct,” he stated.
He acknowledged some of the challenges confronting the Ministry, including inadequate funding and low staff morale, but expressed confidence that innovative solutions and collaboration with relevant stakeholders would help address them.
Enikanolaiye further emphasized the importance of teamwork in repositioning the Ministry to become more proactive, innovative and globally competitive.
He promised to revamp the Ministry’s internal structures, systems and processes in order to strengthen professionalism in Nigeria’s diplomatic service.
According to him, Nigeria’s foreign policy remains focused on protecting national interests, promoting peace and security, and ensuring the welfare and protection of Nigerians living abroad.
The Minister also pledged full cooperation and support to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, recalling their previous working relationship during his time as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.
He noted that both Nigerians and the African continent have high expectations of the country’s diplomatic leadership.
“The expectations of Nigerians and indeed the African continent are high. We cannot afford to fail Mr. President in this noble task. Our collective progress is hinged on the full cooperation and dedication of every one of you,” he said.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye was received at the Ministry by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, alongside directors and members of staff of the Ministry.
