Profile of Ita Enang, Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassador to Germany

Ita Solomon Enang is a Nigerian politician, lawyer, and former presidential adviser who recently returned to national attention following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigeria’s envoy to Germany.

Born on August 23, 1962, Enang attended Presbyterian Teachers’ Training College, Ididep, in Akwa Ibom State between 1974 and 1979.

He later gained admission into the University of Calabar in 1980, where he studied Law and graduated in 1984.

After completing his university education, he attended the Nigerian Law School in Lagos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 before moving into private legal practice.

Entry into politics

Enang began his political career in 1987 when he became a councillor. His rise in politics continued in 1992 when he was elected into the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

His early years in politics helped establish his influence within Akwa Ibom State and later prepared him for national politics.

In 1999, Enang was elected into the House of Representatives to represent the Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State.

He spent three consecutive terms in the Green Chamber from 1999 to 2011 and later became Chairman of the House Committee on Business and Rules, a position that placed him at the centre of legislative coordination in the House.

During his time in the National Assembly, he was recognised for supporting the abolition of the onshore and offshore oil dichotomy, a policy that increased oil revenue allocations to Akwa Ibom and other oil-producing states.

Although his 2007 re-election victory was nullified by an Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo, he later returned to the House after winning a fresh election in January 2010.

Senate career

In 2011, Enang contested for the Senate seat representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He won the election with more than 160,000 votes and served in the Senate from 2011 to 2015.

His years in the Senate further strengthened his role in national politics and legislative affairs.

Role in Buhari administration

After leaving the Senate, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Enang as Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters in 2015.

In the role, he acted as a major link between the Presidency and the Senate. He later served as Senior Special Assistant on Niger Delta Affairs from 2019 to 2022.

In 2022, he resigned from the Buhari administration to pursue his governorship ambition under the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State, although he did not secure the party’s ticket.

Appointment as Nigeria’s envoy to Germany

Enang’s recent appointment by President Tinubu as Nigeria’s envoy to Germany has again placed him in the national spotlight.

Many political observers see the appointment as a strategic move aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Nigeria and South Africa.

Supporters of the appointment believe his years of experience in governance, lawmaking, and public administration make him suitable for the diplomatic role.

Analysts also expect him to help promote trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation while addressing issues affecting Nigerians living and working in South Africa.

Political reputation and experience

Over the years, Enang has built a reputation as one of the most experienced political figures from Akwa Ibom State.

From councillor to state lawmaker, federal representative, senator, and presidential adviser, he has remained active in public service for decades.

Supporters describe him as a politician with strong institutional knowledge, legislative experience, and deep understanding of governance, qualities many believe will shape his performance in his new diplomatic assignment.