The Ọbalúfẹ̀ of Ilé-Ifẹ̀, Oba Idowu Olaniyi Adediwura, who serves as the Prime Minister of the Kingdom and Second-in-Command to His Imperial Majesty, the Ọ̀ọ̀ni of Ife, has wholeheartedly lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of Chief Femi Fani-Kayode as an ambassador.
In a personal statement signed by the monarch, the appointment was described as a fitting recognition of the former Aviation Minister and ex-presidential spokesman’s vast experience, national visibility, and sustained engagement in both domestic and international affairs.
The statement, conveyed the pride felt by the ancient city of Ilé-Ifẹ̀ over the development.
“On behalf of the ancient city of Ilé-Ifẹ̀, the cradle of the Yorùbá race and spiritual nucleus of our people, and in my capacity as the Ọbalúfẹ̀ of Ilé-Ifẹ̀, Prime Minister of the Kingdom and Second-in-Command to His Imperial Majesty, the Ọ̀ọ̀ni of Ife, I extend profound congratulations to Chief Femi Fani-Kayode on his appointment as an Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement read.
Trust, Responsibility, and Cultural Understanding
Oba Adediwura emphasized that Ilé-Ifẹ̀, as the fountain from which Yoruba identity and leadership flow, takes immense pride when one of her sons is called upon to serve the nation beyond its shores. He characterized the moment as one that reflects both great trust and significant responsibility.
The monarch stressed the high standards required for such a position: “Diplomacy, in its truest form, demands wisdom, restraint, courage, and deep cultural understanding. Ilé-Ifẹ̀ believes that representation on the global stage must be anchored on honour, clarity of purpose, and loyalty to the collective destiny of the nation.”
He concluded with the expectation that Fani-Kayode would execute his assignment with dignity and a strong sense of national consciousness.
The traditional ruler offered a Yorùbá adage to underscore the weight of the assignment: “A kì í fi ọmọ Odùduwà ṣeré níbi ìṣẹ́ àgbáyé. Níbi tí a bá rán ọmọ Ifẹ̀ sí, ọlá ni yóò gbe lọ,” which translates roughly to: ‘A child of Oduduwa is not trifled with in global assignments. Wherever a child of Ife is sent, they will bring honor.’
Prayers from the Throne
As Fani-Kayode assumes his new role, the throne of Odùduwà offered earnest prayers for divine guidance.
“May Olódùmarè, the Supreme Creator, endow you with discernment in counsel, strength in duty, and favour before nations and peoples,” the statement concluded. “May your words promote peace, your conduct inspire respect, and your service advance the good name of Nigeria.”
