Former Nigerian Foreign Minister, Bolaji Akinyemi, has urged President Bola Tinubu to avoid any direct confrontation with newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump.
Trump, who assumed office on January 20, 2025, has reignited global debates with controversial policy promises, including the deportation of millions of undocumented immigrants and the reintroduction of the “Remain in Mexico” policy.
During a television appearance, Akinyemi advised Tinubu to adopt a cautious and strategic approach, even if some of Trump’s policies negatively impact Nigeria’s interests, according to a report by The Cable.
“If I were President Tinubu, I would try to steer clear of antagonising him because there is nothing a bully likes better than taking on people who are not strong enough to resist him,” Akinyemi explained.
He further referenced an African proverb to emphasize his point: “If you are not strong enough to take on a bully and you challenge him, you may end up suffering even more.”
Akinyemi suggested that Tinubu explore alternative methods to address issues arising from Trump’s policies, ensuring Nigeria’s interests are protected without engaging in a direct conflict.