RismadarVoice Reporters, April 30, 2026
Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has received international goodwill following her elevation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with Israel’s top diplomat expressing optimism about stronger bilateral ties.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, Gideon Sa’ar congratulated Ojukwu on her appointment and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria.
He noted his readiness to work closely with the new minister to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
“My warmest congratulations to @Ojukwu_Bianca on your appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I look forward to working with you to deepen the relations between our nations and advance cooperation between our countries,” Saar said.
Ojukwu’s appointment follows the exit of Yusuf Tuggar and marks her promotion from Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, a move seen as part of broader efforts by the Tinubu administration to recalibrate Nigeria’s foreign policy direction.
In a related development, President Tinubu has nominated Sola Enikanolaiye as the new Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to Senate confirmation. Enikanolaiye, a veteran diplomat from Kogi State, previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.
According to a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Enikanolaiye brings over three decades of experience in Nigeria’s foreign service, including roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic postings in Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi.
The presidency said the appointments are part of ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s foreign policy framework for greater efficiency, strategic engagement, and stronger global partnerships.
President Tinubu congratulated the appointees and urged them to prioritise Nigeria’s national interest, promote economic diplomacy, strengthen regional stability, and protect the welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
