A distinguished group comprising former foreign ministers, ex-members of the Federal Executive Council, service chiefs, retired diplomats, and other prominent figures have expressed strong support for the appointment of Ambassador Audu-Rafiu Olusola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

The endorsement, according to the group, reflects the high regard in which he is held within diplomatic and policy circles, as well as widespread optimism about his capacity to manage complex international relations effectively. They noted that the commendations underscore confidence in his leadership, experience, and vision for Nigeria’s foreign policy direction.

Prominent figures in diplomacy, including Professor Bolaji Akinyemi and General Ike Nwachukwu, were said to have personally expressed admiration for Enikanolaiye, describing him as a dedicated patriot committed to nation-building.

Similarly, former Chief of Defence Staff General Gabriel Olonisakin and former Health Minister Professor Eyitayo Lambo also praised his appointment, highlighting his track record of service and expected contributions to the administration.

Rear Admirals Mackson Makanju Kadiri and Murtala Bashir, both former Commandants of the Nigerian Defence College, also congratulated him, describing the appointment as timely and strategic for strengthening Nigeria’s foreign relations.

Beyond individual endorsements, several institutions—including the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs (NIIA), Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Society for International Relations Awareness (SIRA), and the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN)—sent congratulatory messages, expressing confidence in his capacity and integrity.

Other organizations and institutions such as the Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics (AERE), the Nigerian Embassy in Prague, Federal University Lokoja, and Kogi State University, Kabba, also joined in the commendations, noting broad confidence in his leadership.
On the community level, representatives including Hon. Leke Abejide, member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, alongside groups such as the Ife-Olukotun Descendants Union (IDU), Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (ECDA), Jege Development Association (JDA), and the Okun Development Association (ODA), also celebrated his elevation.

In a personal message, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Gbenga Solomon Ibileye, described Enikanolaiye as an exceptional diplomat, technocrat, and humanitarian, praising his long-standing contributions to public service.

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted Enikanolaiye’s establishment of the Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye Scholarship Award for Academic Excellence at Kogi State University, describing it as a lasting legacy aimed at promoting academic excellence, discipline, and youth development.

According to the university spokesperson, Tade Oshaloto, the initiative reflects the diplomat’s commitment to education and philanthropy, with the institution noting that the scholarship would positively impact students and serve as a long-term investment in Nigeria’s future.