Tinubu Urged To Tread Carefully In U.S.-Nigeria Relations Amid Trump’s Presidency
By Editor
2 min read
Renowned Professor of Political Science, Bolaji Akinyemi, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu to exercise restraint in his dealings with the United States under the leadership of President Donald Trump. Akinyemi’s advice comes at a critical juncture in U.S.-Nigeria relations, as Trump’s presidency is expected to bring about significant changes in American foreign policy.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, Akinyemi emphasized the importance of avoiding confrontation with Trump, who is known for his assertive and sometimes contentious approach to international relations. “If I were President Tinubu, I would try to steer clear of antagonizing him because there is nothing a bully likes better than taking on people who are not strong enough to resist him,” Akinyemi said.
Akinyemi’s warning is rooted in the African proverb that advises against engaging with a bully if one is not sufficiently equipped to resist them. “You know there is that African proverb that if you are not strong enough to take on a bully and you take him on, you are just even going to suffer more for it,” he explained.
Instead of confrontation, Akinyemi recommends that President Tinubu explore alternative approaches to address any concerns or issues that may arise in U.S.-Nigeria relations. “There are ways in which you could address his reaction without confrontation,” he said.
It is worth noting that President Tinubu has already extended congratulations to Trump on his re-election as the 47th President of the United States, expressing optimism about the future of Nigeria-U.S. relations. As the two nations navigate this new chapter in their relationship, Akinyemi’s counsel serves as a timely reminder of the importance of diplomacy and strategic engagement.
