By Joy Odor
Nigeria has officially endorsed the candidacy of Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Mr. Khaled El-Enany, for the position of Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The endorsement was announced by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on the sidelines of the Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum in Abuja on Friday which was made available to newsmen by Alkasim Abdulkadir, the Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister.
According to the Minister, the move underscored Nigeria’s commitment to promoting qualified African candidates in key global leadership roles.
Ambassador Tuggar described Mr. El-Enany as a distinguished figure whose work in cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation, and international cooperation mirrors the aspirations of nations within the Global South.
“Nigeria is proud to support Mr. Khaled El-Enany,” the Minister said. “His leadership in Egypt showcased a deep commitment to protecting African antiquities and advancing tourism as a bridge between civilizations.
He embodies the kind of credible, experienced leadership the international community needs at UNESCO.”
Mr. El-Enany, a renowned Egyptologist, served as Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities from 2016 to 2022, overseeing groundbreaking restoration projects and elevating Egypt’s cultural profile globally.
Nigeria’s backing of El-Enany is seen as part of a growing movement to amplify African representation in multilateral institutions and reinforce collaboration among countries in the region on global cultural governance.
The Nigeria-Egypt Business Forum, which hosted the announcement, brought together policymakers, business leaders, and diplomats from both countries to deepen economic ties and promote cultural and strategic partnerships across sectors.
Observers say El-Enany’s candidacy could galvanize support from across Africa and the Global South, potentially marking a new chapter for inclusive leadership at UNESCO.
