Source: Premium Times Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu came to power at a critical time in the history of Nigeria. As the commander in chief, Bola Tinubu faces challenges amid ravages in the global economy. Among his many promises is the desire to crack down on corruption in Nigeria. The main question that runs through all the speeches, declarations, and lips from Nigeria and the entire Africa is the following: Will Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidency make or break Nigeria?
Nigeria is seen as a puppet in West Africa
The last coup d’état in Niger led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani exposes the Nigerian government. In fact, many observers of African international relations argue that decisions made by ECOWAS and Nigeria were dictated by foreign powers such as France and the United States of America. Following the coup, several nations cut economic ties with the Republic of Niger. Many argue that the decisions to impose economic sanctions on Niger were motivated by foreign governments, including Western countries. Nigeria shut down its border with Niger, cutting off the electricity supply to the country, and applied economic sanctions.
ECOWAS and Nigeria have lost credibility in West Africa
Source: Premium Times Nigeria
The last coup d’état in Niger led by presidential guard commander General Abdoulrahamane Tchiani exposes the Nigerian government. In fact, many observers of African international relations argue that decisions made by ECOWAS and Nigeria were dictated by foreign powers such as France and the United States of America. Following the coup, several nations cut economic ties with the Republic of Niger.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Must Lead
Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s presidency will make or break Nigeria’s standing in the African international affairs and diplomatic relations. The decisions that President Tinubu makes today will have the potential to impact the strength and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and other West African states for several decades to come. Many West African countries have long and rich historical, cultural, political, and economic ties. They have several languages and interests in common and work together to advance shared prosperity, win-win partnerships, security, and economic collaboration.
Nigeria is facing a lot of challenges already that must occupy President Bola Tinubu. Added to this complicated political and economic dynamics are the trapping of new world economic order which is unfolding in Africa. Multinational corporations are becoming more powerful than African nations, including Nigeria. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a political leadership update in Nigeria. The architecture of President Bola Tinubu’s power must reflect the drastic change in desires, wants, goals, and visions in West Africa.
A call to action
The decisions that President Tinubu makes today will have the potential to impact the strength and diplomatic relations between Nigeria and other West African states. Many West African countries have long and rich historical, cultural, political, and economic ties. Balancing the economic development needs in Nigeria with the cultivation of political trust and credibility will be key to rebuilding a strong regional economic cooperation.
It is too early to judge to assess Bola Tinubu’s leadership. However, it is important to declare that Nigeria is not doing well in bringing peace and stability in West Africa. President Bola Tinubu can do better by leading ECOWAS to a breakthrough in thinking of ways for regional players to not create disorder, but rather engage in work that put as an added value before member countries.
Author The Author
Jean Narcisse Djaha, Ph.D., is the Founding President and Chairman of the African Council on Foreign Relations. He is guided by Romans 8:30” And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified”.
