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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Germany has reportedly rejected the nomination of former minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s ambassador, citing concerns over his conduct and past statements.
President Bola Tinubu had, on March 6, approved Mr Fani-Kayode’s posting to a Central European country as ambassador-designate. However, the German government declined the nomination on March 13, 2026.
According to officials, the decision was based on Mr Fani-Kayode’s erratic behaviour and controversial past statements, particularly his divisive ethnocentric, tribalistic, and religious fundamentalist comments in Nigeria, which were described as destabilising.
The rejection came shortly after an incident in Abuja where Mr Fani-Kayode reportedly clashed with the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, during a Ramadan dinner hosted by Senator Bashir Lado.
A senior administration official indicated that the former minister may be considered for a different diplomatic posting, with South Africa mentioned as a possible alternative.
Mr Fani-Kayode, a prominent political figure, has previously faced criticism over his public conduct and remarks. In 2020, he drew backlash after verbally attacking a journalist during a press conference, later issuing an apology.
He has also faced legal challenges in the past, though multiple cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission were dismissed between 2024 and 2025 after prosecutors failed to establish a link between him and the alleged offences.