If I Were Tinubu, I’d Avoid Antagonizing Trump – Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi

Professor Bolaji Akinyemi advises President Bola Tinubu to avoid antagonizing Donald Trump, emphasizing strategic diplomacy to protect Nigeria’s interests.

Renowned political scientist and former Nigerian Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a cautious approach in his interactions with the newly inaugurated 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump. Akinyemi, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, underscored the need for diplomacy, describing Trump as a “bully.”

Akinyemi’s Advice to President Tinubu
In the interview, Akinyemi highlighted the importance of avoiding direct confrontation with Trump, stating:

“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.”

To reinforce his perspective, Akinyemi referred to a well-known African proverb:

“If you are not strong enough to take on a bully and you engage him, you will only suffer more. That’s my advice to President Tinubu: avoid confrontation with him, even if it means tolerating actions that may upset Nigeria’s interests.”

He stressed that there are diplomatic ways to address such situations without escalating tensions.

Criticism of Trump’s Inaugural Address
The former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) did not mince words in his critique of Trump’s inaugural speech, describing it as both “shocking” and “depressing.” Akinyemi suggested that Trump’s rhetoric could further complicate international relations, urging Nigerian leadership to remain strategic in their response.

Conclusion
Professor Akinyemi’s remarks serve as a crucial reminder for President Tinubu to prioritize Nigeria’s interests through tactful diplomacy. By avoiding direct confrontation with Trump, Tinubu can safeguard Nigeria’s position on the global stage while navigating the complex dynamics of international politics.