Femi Fani-Kayode

**Femi Fani-Kayode** **Early Life and Education** Chief David Oluwafemi Adewunmi Abdulateef Fani-Kayode, commonly known as Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK), was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on October 16, 1960. He is a lawyer, politician, and essayist. Fani-Kayode comes from a prominent political family in Nigeria; his great-grandfather, Victor Adedapo Kayode, was a prominent jurist, and his father, Chief Victor Babaremilekun Fani-Kayode, was a respected Nigerian politician who served as Deputy Premier of the Western Region of Nigeria from 1963 to 1966. Fani-Kayode received his early education at International School, Ibadan, and subsequently at Downside School in England. He proceeded to study law at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), earning his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree in 1984. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 after completing his studies at the Nigerian Law School. In 1993, he obtained a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Theology from the University of Cambridge. **Career Progression and Political Career** Fani-Kayode began his career as a politician during the Third Republic. He first served as the Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Olusegun Obasanjo, holding the position from July 2003 to June 2006. This role positioned him as one of the key voices defending the administration's policies and actions. Following his tenure as Special Assistant, Fani-Kayode was appointed to the Federal Cabinet. He served as the Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from June 22 to November 7, 2006. He was subsequently appointed the Minister of Aviation, serving from November 7, 2006, until the end of the administration on May 29, 2007. During his time as Aviation Minister, he was involved in significant policy-making and oversight of the Nigerian aviation sector. After the end of the Obasanjo presidency, Fani-Kayode remained an active and often controversial figure in Nigerian politics and public discourse, becoming known for his outspoken commentary on national issues. He switched political allegiance multiple times, moving between the ruling and opposition parties. **Notable Works and Major Achievements** Fani-Kayode is recognized more for his political visibility and his published essays and articles than for legislative achievements. He is a prolific writer and commentator, utilizing various media platforms, including his popular social media accounts and columns, to share his political views and analyses. His commentary often focuses on Nigerian history, ethnic relations, and government accountability, sometimes sparking public debate. His major achievements are concentrated during his time in government: * **Special Assistant on Public Affairs:** He played a central role in managing the public image and communication strategy of the Obasanjo administration during a critical period. * **Minister of Aviation:** His tenure involved efforts toward reforming and improving the infrastructural and safety standards of the Nigerian aviation industry.**Current Status** Femi Fani-Kayode continues to be a prominent voice in Nigeria's political landscape. He remains active as a public commentator and political operative, consistently contributing to national discussions through his writings and media appearances. His current political alignment places him within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party.