He Threatened the World: Int'l Expert Warns Tinubu Against 1 Major Mistake to Avoid With Trump
Prominent political scientist, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, has advised President Bola Tinubu to avoid adopting a confrontational approach toward the newly inaugurated 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump.
Speaking with Channels Television, Akinyemi emphasized the importance of caution in Nigeria’s foreign relations during Trump’s second term.
According to a report from ChannelsTv, Donald Trump was sworn in on Monday, succeeding Joe Biden, four years after his first term was interrupted by an electoral defeat. Akinyemi warned against challenging Trump, describing him as a “bully” who thrives on opposition.
“If I were President Tinubu, I would steer clear of antagonizing him because a bully enjoys taking on those who cannot resist effectively,” Akinyemi stated.
He referenced an African proverb to highlight the dangers of confronting a stronger adversary, adding, “If you are not strong enough to take on a bully, engaging with him will only worsen your situation.”
Akinyemi urged Tinubu to address potential disputes diplomatically, suggesting that even if Trump’s policies negatively impact Nigeria, confrontation should be avoided. “There are ways to respond to his actions without resorting to open conflict,” he advised.
Akinyemi also criticized Trump’s inaugural speech, describing it as “uninspiring, shocking, and depressing.”
He expressed concern over the aggressive tone, noting that instead of promoting global peace, Trump issued threats and unveiled a series of hostile policies.
“This rhetoric could backfire, as there are always consequences to jingoism,” he cautioned.
According to Akinyemi, Nigeria is unlikely to be a focal point of Trump’s administration.
“Africa’s most populous nation is not on the radar of the 78-year-old president, and little should be expected from his presidency,” he said.
Akinyemi’s remarks underscore the need for Nigeria to tread carefully in its international relations during Trump’s tenure, prioritizing diplomacy over confrontation.