President Tinubu Was Right Not To Cancel State Visit Due To Maiduguri Åttåck, You Can’t Do That To UK — Akinyemi
By Trek Africa Newspaper
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bolaji Akinyemi, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for proceeding with his state visit to the United Kingdom despite the recent security incident in Maiduguri.
Speaking on the development on Friday edition of Arise News Morning Show, Akinyemi described the visit as significant and well-executed, noting that cancelling it at the last minute would have sent the wrong diplomatic signal.
“While what occurred in Maiduguri with the bombings was a disaster for Nigeria’s image, it should be something we mourn, but you don’t cancel a state visit at the last second,” he said.
According to him, global diplomatic engagements of such magnitude require careful planning and commitments that cannot be abruptly altered due to internal challenges.
“You cannot do that to Britain or the United States because of domestic issues in your country,” Akinyemi added.
He also commended King Charles III for the reception accorded to the Nigerian delegation, describing it as a strong signal of Nigeria’s relevance on the global stage.
Akinyemi noted that the visit not only boosts Nigeria’s international image but also reassures citizens of the country’s standing among leading nations.
The former minister, however, acknowledged the gravity of the Maiduguri incident, urging that it should be properly addressed while maintaining Nigeria’s diplomatic obligations abroad.
President Tinubu’s visit to the UK has focused on strengthening bilateral relations, with key discussions centred on trade, investment, defence cooperation, and cultural exchange.
Akinyemi’s remarks add to the ongoing debate over the President’s decision to proceed with the trip amid security concerns at home.
