Former presidential aide, Denge Josef Onoh, has congratulated former Governor of Enugu State, Ambassador Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, on his appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic of Greece.

In a statement issued on Friday, Onoh described the appointment as recognition of Ugwuanyi’s contributions to national development and his record of leadership in public service.

Onoh recalled Ugwuanyi’s tenure as Governor of Enugu State between 2015 and 2023, noting that he led several initiatives aimed at grassroots empowerment and development.

“This role is a testament to your unwavering dedication to public service and the indelible mark you have left on Nigeria’s political landscape,” Onoh said.

“As you represent Nigeria on the international stage, I am confident that your diplomatic acumen and commitment to fostering bilateral relations will strengthen ties between Nigeria and Greece in areas such as trade, tourism, education, technology and cultural exchange.”

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Ugwuanyi as ambassador.

“This choice reflects the President’s foresight in respect to Ugwuanyi, in selecting some individuals of proven integrity and capability to advance Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and enhance our global standing,” Onoh said.

“It inspires hope and reaffirms faith in our leadership’s commitment to national development.”

Onoh further commended the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, for his support during the transition, acknowledging his role in sustaining the state’s development trajectory.

He also praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, leader of the G5 group of governors, for what he described as his loyalty and enduring friendship with Ugwuanyi.

According to Onoh, the relationship between Wike and Ugwuanyi has been instrumental in fostering unity and collaboration towards collective political successes.

He noted that Ugwuanyi’s diplomatic posting to Greece aligns with the European nation’s historic reputation as the cradle of democracy and philosophy, adding that it complements the former governor’s legacy of promoting peace, unity and democratic values in Nigeria.

Onoh also described Ugwuanyi as more than a political associate.

“Ugwuanyi isn’t only my former boss, but an elder brother, a dear friend, an ally and a man who, despite being misunderstood by many, remains my friend, a dear friend and my best friend that I can never deny irrespective of any present, past or future differences,” he said.

He wished the ambassador wisdom, good health and success in his new assignment, adding that Nigeria takes pride in his service.