The planned visit of the First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu, to Enugu on Monday, has set the State agog, as major streets in the state capital are adorned with her pictures and colourful lamp post banners.
Also, goodwill messages by the First Lady of the State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah; wives of chairmen of Local Government Councils, various women organisations, youth associations, community-based groups, among others, are blaring on various radio stations.
The First Lady is scheduled to arrive Enugu on Monday for a two-day working visit during which she will distribute 10,000 professional kits to healthcare workers in the state, palliatives to the less privileged, and also commission the state-of-the-art Technical, Vocational Education, and Training College, GTC, Enugu.
Mrs. Mbah’s message reads in part: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome our dear First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, on her two-day official visit to Enugu State from 9th to 10th June, 2025.
“During the visit, Her Excellency will distribute professional kits to healthcare workers; launch the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign against HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis; distribute palliatives to the vulnerable in the state as well as commission the brand new Science, Technical and Vocational School, GTC, Enugu, built by the Government of Enugu State.
“Your Excellency, we are profoundly grateful for your inspiring and selfless commitment to humanitarian causes, and are proud to be a part of your continuous empowerment outreaches.”
Ahead of the Monday visit, Governor Peter Mbah has also published a message to welcome Mrs. Tinubu on behalf of the Government, while also appreciating the First Lady for her partnership with the state.
“We commend your untiring commitment to championing the health and wellbeing of Nigerians in general and Ndi Enugu in particular,” the Governor stated.
President Bola Tinubu on Sunday received Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.
Since he arrived in Lagos on May 27, the President has attended the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States, inaugurated several projects, and also received numerous personalities.
He is expected to return to the Federal Capital Territory after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The visit was revealed in a post by Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Lagos Governor, Jubril Gawat, who shared photos of the President with Sanwo-Olu and GAC members on his X handle.
Gawat tweeted: “Mr President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT GCFR receives the Governor of Lagos State, Mr @jidesanwoolu and Governance Advisory Council (GAC) Members today, as they paid Sallah Homage to Mr President at his residence in Ikoyi Lagos”
Former Imo Governor Ikedi Ohakim has praised President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration for taking measures that, though painful, have prevented the complete deterioration of the national economy.
Delivering a paper titled: “Building Nigeria’s troubled economy: Practical insights into the challenges and solutions” at the Synod of Diocese of Orlu (Anglican Communion), Ohakim said President’s economic reforms saved the nation’s economy from total collapse.
“The Tinubu administration has taken measures that, though painful, clearly prevented the complete deterioration of the national economy to an irretrievable point.
“Agreed, Nigerians are reeling under excruciating pains as a result of some of the measures, but even though it is hard to sell, there can be no doubt that there is a brighter future ahead,” he stated.
Ohakim highlighted the success of the subsidy removal policy, noting that petrol is now available across the country at a lower price.
“At the initial stage of the removal of the subsidy on Petroleum products, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) was sold at over N1,500 per liter. Today, it sells at about ₦900 per liter all over the country.”
He also commended the Tinubu administration for freeing up funds for State Governments, enabling them to pay salaries and implement projects.
“Today, the subnational governments, that is, the state governments, receive more money from the Federation account. Many of the governors are putting it to good use,” he stated.
Using Imo State as an example, Ohakim cited the road revolution and ongoing electricity project as evidence of the positive impact of the Tinubu administration’s policies.
“The road revolution going on needs not be overemphasized because it is there for all to see. The Uzodimma administration is undertaking an electricity project that is expected to guarantee a 24-hour electricity supply in all 27 local government areas of the state before August 2027.”
However, Ohakim called for restructuring of the nation’s political structure, saying: “The urgency of our situation demands a new normal, a clear and different structure through which our people will be organized to face the changing world.”
He expressed confidence that President Tinubu possesses the courage to undertake this task.
The Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, has declared that the emerging opposition coalition aiming to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections is bound to collapse, citing a lack of public trust and credibility among its promoters.
Addressing journalists in Abuja over the weekend, Yakasai said the coalition, made up of political actors with questionable records, would not gain traction with Nigerians, many of whom remember the failures of the opposition when they held power.
“In Nigeria, we have seen that after every election, the losers tend to cry the loudest even when they performed abysmally when given the opportunity to serve the people.
“What APC has come to do is to clear the mess of past misgovernance by the Peoples Democratic Party for 16 years,”Yakasai said.
He pointed to past scandals during the PDP era to bolster his argument, including the disappearance of $16 billion earmarked for power infrastructure and the Halliburton bribery scandal, which led to a conviction in the United States but no major prosecutions in Nigeria.
“You can remember that it was in this country that $16 billion meant for power infrastructure went missing, it was in this country that we had the Halliburton scandal for which an American senator was jailed but collaborators in Nigeria have not faced the law,” Yakasai stated.
He warned that the opposition’s lack of a unifying agenda beyond their shared desire for power would ultimately doom any attempted alliance.
“It is easy for coalitions to meet because of their interests but when it comes to time to agree, they will naturally disagree because that is in their character. In any case, when coalition meets, many of their members have been moving into APC in droves,” he said.
Yakasai dismissed fears that Nigeria was slipping into a one-party system amid a flurry of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that party-switching occurs in all directions in a democracy.
He argued that President Tinubu’s administration has made bold economic reforms that demonstrate a seriousness of purpose absent in previous governments.
Chief among these, he said, was the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange windows.
“The first major achievement of this administration is to do away with the unsustainable fuel subsidy that became a monster consuming resources, billions of Naira, that would have been used for national development but ended up in the pockets of a few individuals.
“The second thing is that streamlining of the parallel foreign exchange market which hitherto saw a few connected persons doing round-tripping—getting foreign currency from the Central Bank and instead of using it for manufacturing or industry, they go and sell to forex dealers in the black market”, Yakasai noted.
According to Yakasai, these measures were crucial in halting what he described as the “destruction” of Nigeria’s economic system and have laid the foundation for sustainable growth.
Looking ahead, the TSG Director-General urged Nigerians to be patient and continue supporting the administration, assuring them of significant improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the economy as Tinubu’s reforms take full effect.
“They should exercise patience and continue to support President Tinubu. I can guarantee them that by the time the various policies take full effect, there will be a lot of benefits that will come to Nigerians in terms of road network, health infrastructure, education, security, and significant improvement in the economy,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of continuity, stating that the true fruits of the reforms would only be visible if Tinubu is re-elected.
“You can’t start reforms and stop them midway, some of them require continuity for them to fully mature. Nigerians should remember that even other presidential candidates had equally promised to remove petrol subsidy, but the problem is that they would not have managed the consequences as professionally as President Tinubu is doing.
“As such, Nigerians should be patient and Insha Allah, there will be more progress and it is only when you guarantee continuity that you will see full results and manifest success in the next two years; moreso when President Bola Tinubu comes back for a second term”, Yakasai said.
Yakasai, who oversees various pro-Tinubu support groups across the country, reiterated his confidence that Nigerians would ultimately choose stability and continuity over recycled political figures who, according to him, squandered their chance at governance in the past.
Economists and commentators have written and said much about the positive trajectory and indicators signposting Nigeria’s economic growth. These indicators indicate that the reforms embarked upon by President Bola Tinubu since assuming office two years ago have begun to engender successful outcomes. The reforms are paving the way for economic recovery. The facts are self-evident and they speak for themselves too.
According to a World Bank report, the GDP grew 3.4% in 2024, the highest in a decade. Inflation is tumbling and is currently at 23.7%. The government is meeting its debt obligations. After the Central Bank of Nigeria cleared the forex backlog amounting to $10 billion, the debt-service-to-revenue ratio fell from around 100% to below 60%. Foreign reserves, which instill confidence in investors to come in and exit with their profits as they wish, now stand at $38 billion.
Just as remarkable is how national revenues have increased exponentially, resulting in unprecedented increases in allocation to sub-nationals. Such growth has been a significant shot in the arm, giving them the much-needed fiscal impetus to fund projects and cater to the welfare of their people.
The increased revenue also helps partly finance key infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. Last week, President Tinubu inaugurated the completed Phase 1, Section 1 (30km by six lanes) of the 750km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
These strides have been phenomenal. But there is more work for the government to do. The administration also has a few challenges to tackle. The macroeconomic gains highlight the need to impact microeconomics. The positive economic statistics must impact the living standards of the most significant number of our people.
They must affect their living standards, especially the cost of essential goods and services. The government needs to reduce unemployment significantly, just as it needs to make the country much safer.
However, as I have often argued, President Tinubu’s achievements in two years are not mere happenstance. They did not come by wishful thinking. They result from a bold vision outlined in his Renewed Hope Agenda, uncommon courage, and unrelenting hard work.
This piece explores just two stories that speak to the courage, audacity and determination of President Tinubu to do things differently. The first happened a day before President Tinubu’s trip to Rome, Italy, on May 17, 2025, for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. Invited by the new Pope, the President’s decision to attend the event, accompanied by Catholic bishops, was remarkable in the context of the President’s religion and that of his vice-president.
In the build-up to the 2023 election, the opposition claimed the two leaders would turn the country into an Islamic state. That did not happen. Instead, they are running an administration that is blind to religion. Christians, Muslims, and adherents of other religious leanings get their dues.
I was at the residence to see the President around 2 pm just after he had performed the diplomatic ceremony of receiving letters of credence from some ambassadors. From that period, he was in his home office, working on files and receiving governors, top government functionaries and other guests who had visited till around 11 pm.
Those who visited included Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi(SAN), Minister of Solid Minerals Development Mr. Dele Alake, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and former Osun State governor, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, as well as top businessmen including Alhaji Samad Rabiu of BUA Group.
In that long period, the only other thing that went into that office was his lunch. It’s not an isolated pattern. The fact deducible from all this is a bewildering work ethic. President Tinubu works unusually long hours. He devotes virtually all his time to the Nigerian project. So, his success is a product of hard work.
His uncommon courage and audacity are well known. His policy options, particularly removing the unsustainable subsidies on fuel and forex, were things leaders before him found appropriate and desirable if the country must move forward but lacked the courage to implement. Fuel subsidies were corruption-laden, while the multifarious foreign exchange windows incentivised arbitrage. For instance, between January and June 2023, fuel subsidies alone gulped N3 trillion, and the bulk went into the pockets of the oil cabal.
An important subtext of this story could be glimpsed from Mr. President’s response when I asked him about the influx of governors, lawmakers, and top chieftains of other parties into the All Progressives Congress. He replied: “Yes, they are coming because they have seen the success of our policies. The economy has virtually rebounded, and the country has turned the corner. Do you think they would defect to our party if I’m not doing well, and the policies have turned awry?”
President Tinubu hardly allows any opportunity to bask in well-earned moments of glory to elude him. He often says, “I have a bragging right here. It is my turn to brag over this.”
The President is, however, not unmindful of the fact that the macroeconomic gains achieved by his administration thus far have not fully impacted the streets and pockets of our people. He has also spoken of this. At the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road referenced earlier, President Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to be patient with him.
“I know your expectations are still very high at this stage, and our people are still going through difficult times. I take this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians that hope is here, and it is realisable,” he said, adding: “You would be proud of the benefits; there is light at the end of the tunnel. Inflation is coming down; we have eliminated the corruption in the exchange rate; the corruption in fuel subsidy is now limited to the barest minimum. It is all for you, the people; we are reducing the cost of manufacturing and encouraging manufacturing locally. We give all incentives for everyone to abide by the principle. May God bless our country; may God bless Lagos State and keep our fighting soldiers safe,” he said.
-Rahman is a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Special Duties.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is to address a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12 as part of activities marking the 2025 Democracy Day.
In an internal memo to members, Clerk to the House of Representatives, Yahaya Danzaria said the President is expected to arrive the National Assembly around12.00 noon.
A statement by the spokesman of the House, Akintunde Rotimi on the President’s engagement reads: “The leadership and Honourable Members of the House of Representatives will participate in a special joint sitting of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12, 2025, to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
“This development was formally conveyed to Members via an internal memorandum issued by the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Dr. , Esq., on Sunday.
“The special joint sitting is scheduled to hold at the House of Representatives Chamber, National Assembly Complex, commencing at 11:00 AM, with preliminary proceedings ahead of the arrival of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at 12:00 noon.
“The theme for this year’s celebration is:
“26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development.” President Tinubu is expected to attend the occasion as Special Guest of Honour and will deliver a Presidential Address to the joint sitting.
“The programme will also feature goodwill messages from former presiding officers of the National Assembly and the conferment of National Honours on select legislators by Mr. President.
“This joint sitting represents a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It underscores the pivotal role of the National Assembly in safeguarding democratic values, fostering accountability, and advancing national development over the past 26 years of uninterrupted civil rule.
“The House of Representatives urges all Nigerians to embrace the spirit of Democracy Day as a time for reflection, renewed patriotism, and commitment to building a more inclusive, prosperous, and united nation”.
Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu have pledged to work together for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
Dr. Ogah who pledged to join forces with the Deputy Speaker spoke when he visited Kalu at the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) office in Umuahia yesterday.
Ogah applauded the Deputy Speaker for his legislative legacies especially in sponsoring the bill that established the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and urged him not to relent in championing the cause of Ndi Igbo.
The collaboration between Ogah and Kalu is seen by many as a strategic move to strengthen support for Tinubu’s agenda in Abia State and the Southeast region.
Ogah said: “My brother and friend, we have always worked together and here today, I have come to join forces with you to see that Renewed Hope Partners is a success in Abia State.
‘We will do everything within our capacity, everything within the corridors of the people we work with, everything within our communities using all the social capitals that we have to see that this renewed hope partnership is a success. When the two of us are united with everyone here, we all have a part to play; I can tell you the president should go and sleep.
“We will put in everything we have, including our resources. It’s a team work and I can tell you that we have a structure and when we come out to support anybody, that structure will give you victory.
“Thank you so far for the work you are doing within the region. Thank you for the South East Development Commission for the purpose of reconstruction, reconciliation and rehabilitation; something that has been denied us since 1970 has now come into realization.
“We encourage you to do more for Igbo people. We are very grateful. We believe that the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
“I believe that everyone of us has a place and whatever God has proposed for each and everyone of us will come to fulfillment in due season.”
The Deputy Speaker welcomed Ogah’s decision to join hands with him to support the President in 2027, saying plans are underway to showcase Tinubu’s achievements across the Southeast region.
“We share a lot in common. You bring a lot of value to politics. We all have our values. I will be the last person to ignore what you are capable of doing in Abia politics. We need you to be on board with all the investments you have made in Abia politics, working for the people and working for the region.
“When I had tete -a-tete with him, he said he is fully on board. Even without saying it, I have seen that Dr. Uche Ogah is on board. We are going to do tour even outside the Southeast showcasing what the President has done and preparing men for 2027. Unity is strength.
If we work together we will achieve results. There are thousands of people out there waiting to get on board,” Kalu said.
The Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Dr Khamis Olatunde Badmus, has urged state governors and chairmen of local government areas to use increased allocation from economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu to tackle infrastructure decay, alleviating poverty, and rejuvenating the economy.
Badmus, a business tycoon in a statement yesterday noted that oil subsidy removal by the Federal Government has turned out to be a huge blessing that will soon assist the nation to tackle backwardness.
Asiwaju Tunde-Badmus remarked that as a result of the oil subsidy removal, the 36 states of the federation and the 774 local governments across Nigeria now receive triple to five times of the allocation they were formally receiving.
He said many states are succeeding in clearing their debt obligations, a development, he said will give the states the opportunity to focus on the development of their states and their people.
The Muslim leader said even those in the “built industry” now earn more. In his words, “Bricklayers now earn between ten to N15, 000 per day.” This and many more ,he said, will help inject funds into the economy.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for taking the bull by the horn, adding that the economic restructuring will soon make life better for all Nigerians.
He implored the governors and the local government chairmen to use the opportunity offered by the availability of funds to fulfill all their electoral promises in the spirit of Eid el Kabir which he said exemplifies Allah’s admonition to humanity never to joke with the fulfillment of the promises they made.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and several dignitaries joined in celebrating renowned industrialist, Chief Oyin Jolayemi, as he marked his 85th birthday in Lagos at the weekend.
The day began with a thanksgiving service at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, attended by top government officials, captains of industry, religious leaders, and family members.
In his sermon, Bishop of Lagos Diocese (Anglican Communion), Rt. Revd. Ifedola Okupevi, commended Chief Jolayemi for his impactful life.
Reading from Psalms 90:14 and speaking on the theme, ‘Unmerited Grace,’ Okupevi described Jolayemi as a man blessed with divine grace and a legacy of hard work.
The celebration continued with a grand reception at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, where tributes poured in from across the country.
President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, described Jolayemi as a national asset whose contributions to industrial growth and youth employment have helped shape Nigeria’s economic landscape.
“Mr. President asked me to thank you for a life well lived, for your service to the nation, for creating opportunities for our youth, and for remaining a beacon of excellence in industry,” Dr. Salako said.
Kwara State Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, also gave glowing remarks, while tributes from the Lagos and Ogun State Governors praised the celebrant’s integrity, humility, and service to humanity.
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that Chief Jolayemi had become synonymous with enterprise and generosity. “At 85, you remain a source of wisdom and inspiration to all who know your story,” he said.
Governor Abiodun, in his message, highlighted the celebrant’s entrepreneurial impact and his contributions to nation-building, describing him as a role model who embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion.
Oluwatosin Jolayemi, the celebrant’s first son, listed some outstanding qualities he has learned from his father, including integrity, being God-fearing, and purposefulness.
His second son, Oluwasegun Jolayemi, praised his father’s virtues of exemplary life and hard work, noting that the industrialist has set high standards that have shaped the good life he is leading today. He prayed that Chief Jolayemi would continue to enjoy good health.
His daughter, Bunmi, also praised her father for teaching her the ways of the Lord and, most importantly, discipline, noting that her children have also imbibed the same virtues.
Other dignitaries present at the event included former Supreme Court Justice and former High Commissioner to the UK, Justice George Oguntade; Senator Florence Ita Giwa; Prince Samuel Adedoyin, Chairman of the Doyin Group of Companies; and top executives from various sectors.
In a tribute, Odu’a Investment Company Limited praised Chief Jolayemi for building the Daily Need Industries into a resilient business and for mentoring generations of professionals.
President Bola Tinubu’s foreign policy marks a clear departure from the past, signalling Nigeria’s renewed determination to reclaim its voice on the global stage. Rooted in strategic realism and national interest, his administration’s diplomatic drive is not just about international recognition—it’s a calculated effort to attract investment, boost security cooperation and enhance development at home. In this special report, Assistant Editor BOLA OLAJUWON examines how Tinubu’s global moves are reshaping Nigeria’s fortunes from within
In today’s interconnected world, domestic and foreign policy are no longer separate spheres. What happens beyond a country’s borders can profoundly shape its internal affairs—and vice versa. Recognising this, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sought to align Nigeria’s international engagements with domestic realities, blending both without compromising national interests.
Foreign policy, in essence, is the formal, legal, and authoritative expression of a nation’s interests, articulated through the constitutional mechanisms of the state. It represents a strategic course of action undertaken by a government to pursue specific goals, and is often seen as the international extension of domestic priorities.
Since gaining independence, Nigeria’s foreign policy has traditionally revolved around key pillars: the eradication of colonialism and imperialism in Africa, the promotion of friendly relations and cooperation among African nations, and a strong commitment to Africa as the cornerstone of its diplomatic engagements. Nigeria also embraced non-alignment during the Cold War, advocated peaceful resolution of conflicts, and upheld the territorial integrity and sovereignty of fellow African states—anchored on non-interference in their internal affairs.
A strategic shift from the past
Under President Tinubu, however, a notable shift is taking shape. The administration has begun redefining Nigeria’s external relations through a lens of pragmatic national interest, recalibrating the country’s Afrocentric foreign policy to drive economic diplomacy and real development outcomes. From the moment he was sworn in as Nigeria’s 16th President, Tinubu signalled a break from business as usual. His inaugural address sent a clear message—both to Nigerians and the international community—that his presidency would be defined by decisive action.
Understanding that foreign policy cannot be divorced from internal realities, Tinubu immediately confronted long-standing economic challenges. He made a bold declaration: “Fuel subsidy is gone.” He followed this by unifying the multiple exchange rates, ushering in major economic reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence and spurring growth. These actions, while welcomed by financial markets and international observers, have also triggered significant domestic repercussions—including rising inflation and a surge in poverty. Yet, the Tinubu administration appears committed to staying the course, guided by the belief that long-term gains will outweigh short-term pain.
Despite the hardship accompanying his reforms, President Tinubu has managed to rein in key labour unions—including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and unions in tertiary institutions—through the introduction of palliatives and salary increments for workers. Within months of assuming office, he suspended the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, and the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa. He also dismissed several ambassadors, dissolved governing boards of federal parastatals, agencies, institutions, and government-owned enterprises. Behind the scenes, he has waged a quiet but resolute war against corruption and economic sabotage. The result: a more transparent fiscal system that has improved monthly revenue allocations to the various tiers of government.
In a significant move, Nigeria has cleared its outstanding debt to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), including the $3.4 billion emergency loan received during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the country will continue to make annual payments of about $30 million in Special Drawing Rights (SDR)-related charges for the foreseeable future. Demonstrating commitment to decentralised energy reform, Tinubu signed the Electricity Act into law, empowering states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. While the removal of fuel subsidy has saved trillions of naira, he has simultaneously approved relief measures and palliatives to help states cushion the impact on citizens. Tinubu’s assertive posture on domestic and West African issues reflects a deliberate foreign policy strategy. He has consistently signalled to the international community his intent to restore confidence in Nigeria’s fiscal governance and economic direction.
At global platforms such as the G-20 Summit, the China-Africa Cooperation meeting, and the BRICS forum—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates—President Tinubu has made strong representations for Nigeria, projecting the country as a serious player on the global stage. He has also negotiated key bilateral agreements with international partners to advance Nigeria’s interests.
Gains of the 4-Ds diplomacy strategy
After settling into office, President Tinubu unveiled a robust foreign policy framework popularly referred to as the “Tinubu Doctrine” or the 4-Ds Diplomacy Strategy. This approach is anchored on four pillars: Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora engagement, each designed to reposition Nigeria globally while driving national progress. The first pillar underscores Tinubu’s commitment to democratic governance and political stability in West Africa. As Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), he has taken a firm stance against military takeovers, demanding a return to democratic rule in countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso. His assertiveness may have influenced the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (Alliance des États du Sahel – AES) by these military-led governments in response to ECOWAS pressure.
On the development front, the Tinubu administration has prioritised strategic partnerships and foreign investment to boost economic growth. A major milestone includes the African Development Bank (AfDB) tripling its agricultural interventions in Nigeria—from $500 million to over $1 billion. Additionally, during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi, Indian firms pledged an impressive $14 billion investment into Nigeria’s economy. In another significant deal, John Deere, an American agricultural machinery giant, is set to establish a tractor assembly plant in Nigeria, further energising the agricultural sector. Meanwhile, China has reiterated its commitment to completing key railway infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kano, and Port Harcourt-Maiduguri lines.
President Tinubu recognises that Nigeria’s youthful population is one of its greatest assets. His administration is working to harness this demographic dividend by promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity among young Nigerians. This focus is not only aimed at domestic empowerment but also at engaging the global Nigerian community. The administration’s diaspora diplomacy strategy seeks to integrate the skills, investments and influence of Nigerians abroad into national development efforts. Key initiatives include the Diaspora Mortgage Scheme, designed to provide affordable housing for Nigerians living overseas, and the proposed $10 billion Diaspora Fund, intended to support infrastructure and development projects.
Nigeria also recorded $20 billion in diaspora remittances in 2023, representing a substantial inflow that bolstered foreign reserves and supported economic stability. In a further boost to the agriculture sector, Brazil is investing approximately $8 billion in Nigeria through the Green Imperative Project (GIP). This initiative aims to empower small-scale farmers across all 774 local government areas, improve food security, and catalyse private sector participation in agricultural value chains.
The administration has also introduced a bold economic directive known as the Nigeria First Policy, which prioritises the procurement of locally manufactured goods and services in government contracts. Announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, the policy is expected to be formalised through an executive order. It is geared towards boosting indigenous industries, promoting domestic production, and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign imports. “This policy means Nigeria comes first in all procurement processes. No foreign goods or devices that are already produced locally will be procured without a clear and justified reason,” he stated.
Delay in appointing Nigeria’s heads of missions abroad
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has acknowledged delays in the appointment of the country’s ambassadors but insisted that the execution of Nigeria’s foreign policy has not been hampered as a result. According to him, the absence of formally appointed heads of missions has not led to a suspension of diplomatic activities at Nigerian embassies. President Tinubu had recalled all serving ambassadors in October 2023. While replacements have not yet been named, Tuggar downplayed concerns that the prolonged vacancy might weaken Nigeria’s bilateral engagements or frustrate the nation’s foreign policy objectives. He reassured stakeholders that the embassies remain functional and committed to advancing Nigeria’s interests.
Highlighting his ministry’s achievements, Tuggar noted that Nigeria is being repositioned on the global stage with renewed national pride, improved global perception of Nigerian citizens, increased trust in the Nigerian passport, and a deliberate pursuit of economic diplomacy aimed at removing barriers for Nigerian businesses abroad. “Imagine a Nigeria where every citizen walks into an embassy, airport, or business negotiation not with fear or intimidation, but with confidence. Imagine a Nigeria whose passport opens doors, whose businesses lead global markets, and whose voice is not just heard but respected. That Nigeria is no longer a dream—the foundation is being laid through President Tinubu’s 4-D foreign policy doctrine,” the minister declared.
Addressing the security situation, Ambassador Tuggar stated that despite lingering concerns, Boko Haram has been significantly degraded, and the government is actively pursuing efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate individuals affected by the insurgency. However, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, noted that the resurgence of attacks in Nigeria’s Northeast is linked to terrorist movements and activities across the broader Sahel region. The Boko Haram insurgency began in July 2009, when the Islamist extremist group launched an armed rebellion against the Nigerian state. Although the group has splintered and weakened over time due to military operations, it continues to pose threats alongside other factions and bandit groups.
N4.91 trillion for defence and security
In a bold reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to national security, President Tinubu earmarked a record N4.91 trillion allocation for defence and security in the 2025 fiscal year. This marks a significant increase in funding following the upward review made in the previous year. Explaining the rationale behind the increased allocation, Tinubu said: “While addressing the critical sectors essential for growth and development, we envision securing our nation. Security is the foundation of all progress. We have significantly increased funding for the military, paramilitary, and our police forces to secure the nation, protect our borders, and consolidate government control over every inch of our national territory.”
He further underscored the importance of equipping Nigeria’s security forces with modern tools and technology, noting that enhancing morale among service members is a top priority for his government. “The officers, men, and women of our Armed Forces and the Nigerian Police Force are the shield and protectors of our nation. Our administration will continue to empower them to defeat insurgency, banditry, and all threats to our sovereignty.”
NiDCOM deepening engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has remained active in advancing safe, orderly, and regular migration while strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with its diaspora community across the globe. Key strides made by the Commission include the review and implementation of Nigeria’s Diaspora Policy, capacity-building for staff through training programmes and study tours, and joint awareness campaigns on the dangers of irregular migration. These campaigns were undertaken in partnership with international agencies like the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
Notably, NiDCOM has played a vital humanitarian role in facilitating the rescue and repatriation of Nigerians stranded in conflict zones such as Libya, Ukraine, and other troubled regions worldwide, thereby reinforcing Nigeria’s global consular presence and commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Experts react
Reacting to Tinubu’s mid-term achievements in an interview with The Nation, Prof. Kayode Soremekun, a Nigerian academic, author and the third Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State said talking of achievements in the area of foreign policy, Nigerians have to appreciate that foreign policy achievements are not very easy to quantify. “This is because, as far as foreign policy is concerned, it has what you can call the quality of evolving realities. The first thing I want to say in this respect has to do with what the Tinubu administration inherits in the area of foreign policy.
“And in this respect, I must confess that the optics are not looking good, or rather, the optics did not look good. This is because Nigeria, a country that was once a reference-point in the world as far as African issues are concerned, became something of a backwater in global politics.
“For instance, at a point in time when policemen were required for peacekeeping duties in Haiti, in the Caribbean, the world turned to Kenya. When medical doctors and medical students, i.e., Palestinians, were required to complete their respective courses in another country, they turned to South Africa. And talking of South Africa, it looks as if increasingly South Africa continues to champion African causes.
“And to that extent, South Africa is seen now in contemporary international relations as the hub. So like I said, the optics are very bad. We need to ask ourselves, why are the optics bad? The optics are bad simply because at the domestic level, the Nigerian social formation is yet to acquire a vibrant profile.
“Basically, when we talk of foreign policy, we are only talking of a dynamic that stems from domestic politics, or a dynamic that stems from domestic situations. And the Nigerian domestic situation is not on the positive side. One, we are indebted to the international financial institutions.
“Two, the basics that should propel an economy are not still there in Nigeria. I’m referring here to the fact that Nigeria lacks a petrochemical industry. Nigeria lacks power.
“Nigeria, till now, does not have a steel industry. And when you don’t have these three variables, your foreign policy is bound to be flabby. Another interesting example, which shows up Nigeria in a very negative light, is that till date, Nigeria has no airline. There is no air carrier.
“So, in the light of this, Nigeria’s foreign policy under Tinubu has not been able to acquire a vibrant profile. But then, if we know the way forward, then the problem is half solved. In other words, for Nigeria’s foreign policy to acquire some fibre, to acquire some strength, to acquire some direction, the domestic base must be solidified. For instance, we must have a steel industry. We must have a coherent power system. We must have a petrochemical industry.
On non-appointment of envoys to foreign missions, Prof. Soremekun said: “I must also mention that, till date, our embassies are yet to have substantive ambassadors. And since this is the case, our foreign policy under this administration has not been able to acquire the right kind of traction.”
To Paul Ejime, a global affairs analyst and independent consultant on communications, media development, and governance issues, President Tinubu’s mid-term foreign policy performance presents a mixed bag of outcomes. Ejime said: “He came in, talked about trying to be more assertive and bold in terms of how Nigeria will rediscover its leadership position both at the regional and global level. He was fortunate, he was made the Chairman of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). And with that, he also launched what he called the four Ds, doctrine, diplomacy, talking about development, democracy, demography, and diaspora. And then, he later came up with what he called the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“It hasn’t been that rosy at home from the economic standpoint. He came in and then removed the fuel subsidy. But many thought that perhaps, well, it might be reasonable and an economic decision that Nigeria was bound to take anyway. But the point is how prepared, what was put in place to cushion the effect, because it is the fact that we are now having issues in terms of inflation, in terms of foreign exchange rate, and so on and so forth. And the fact that many Nigerians are complaining that their purchasing power has reduced and many are now finding it difficult to put food on the table.
“So, it is that domestic policy where you now extrapolate it to the regional level.
“And I think ECOWAS under him made the mistake of mishandling the question of particularly that of Niger, when they came up with trying to invade or trying to remove the military leaders by force. That was an unpopular decision that has snowballed into three countries, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, now exiting ECOWAS and then forming what they call the Alliance of Sahel States.
“But you will also question if 150 or 100 ambassadors cannot do, whether the president in his position will be able to achieve much if he decides to run a Nigerian foreign policy without ambassadors.”
But, former Director-General, Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Prof. Bola Akinterinwa submitted that the achievement of President Tinubu in foreign affairs in the past two years may be difficult to objectively ascertain simply because foreign policy focus, foreign policy objectives and seeds are planted, but it takes time for the planted seeds to grow.
“However, when we look at the approach to the conduct and management of Nigeria’s foreign affairs, it is significant to note that Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar came up with the diplomacy of four Ds. That is, development, democracy, demography, and diaspora. This in itself is quite commendable.”
