Enikanolaiye Named Minister, Launches Kogi Scholarship

Ambassador Audu‑Rafiu Olusola Enikanolaiye appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and unveiled the Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence at Kogi State University. The move drew praise from former officials, diplomats, and community leaders across Nigeria.

Former foreign ministers, ex‑service chiefs, retired diplomats and members of the Federal Executive Council (the cabinet) publicly welcomed the appointment. They described Enikanolaiye as an erudite diplomat with a record of nation‑building service.

Organizations such as the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps and the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors also sent congratulations. Local leaders from Yagba constituency and community groups in Kogi State added their support.

Enikanolaiye thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for choosing what he called an erudite, quintessential diplomat. He said the president’s judgment reflects confidence in his ability to handle foreign affairs.

He also announced the Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence at Kogi State University. The award will fund top‑performing students each year.

Analysts note that the endorsement from senior figures may smooth Enikanolaiye’s transition into the cabinet. His background in diplomacy could influence Nigeria’s approach to regional trade and security dialogues.

The scholarship signals a commitment to education and may encourage similar philanthropy from other officials. Observers will monitor how Enikanolaiye shapes Nigeria’s diplomatic agenda and whether the scholarship expands to other institutions.