The ambassador-designate of Nigeria to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent visit to the United Kingdom, describing the trip as timely and strategically important for Nigeria.
In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, the former Ondo South senator said the visit came at a time of shifting global alliances, making it essential for Nigeria to remain active in international engagements.
Ibrahim said the meeting between Tinubu and Charles III reflected the deep historical ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He noted that the trip would further strengthen cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, and security.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated that Nigeria can engage effectively across geopolitical divides, leveraging historical alliances while advancing modern national priorities,” Ibrahim said. “His actions are precise, timely, and strategically sound. Without doubt, history will be kind to him.”
The diplomat-designate also emphasised that Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts align with the objectives of the United Nations, particularly in promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development worldwide.
“Stronger engagement with key partners such as the United Kingdom reinforces Nigeria’s role as a stabilising force in Africa and a credible voice in the international system,” he said.
Ibrahim noted that the UK visit was more than a ceremonial trip. According to him, it was a calculated effort to boost Nigeria’s global positioning and advance its foreign policy objectives.
The visit by President Tinubu is part of a broader effort by the administration to strengthen Nigeria’s relationships with global partners. Analysts say this strategy is aimed at attracting foreign investment, enhancing security cooperation, and promoting Nigeria’s economic and political interests abroad.
Tinubu’s discussions in the UK reportedly focused on areas such as trade agreements, infrastructure development, and collaboration on counter-terrorism efforts. The President has repeatedly emphasised that insecurity and economic development are top priorities for his administration.
Ibrahim highlighted that the timing of the visit was crucial. In the current global climate, with geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, strong international partnerships are considered vital for national stability and growth.
“Nigeria must remain proactive and visible on the international stage, especially when global alliances are shifting,” Ibrahim said. He added that the UK-Nigeria relationship has long been important for cooperation in education, commerce, and security initiatives.
The ambassador-designate praised Tinubu for demonstrating effective diplomacy, noting that the President was able to balance Nigeria’s historical ties with modern-day national priorities. He also commended the administration for strategically using foreign visits to achieve tangible results for Nigerians.
Ibrahim’s remarks come amid growing attention on Nigeria’s foreign policy direction under Tinubu’s leadership. Observers note that the administration is increasingly focusing on strengthening economic partnerships, attracting investments, and collaborating on security matters with global allies.
The ambassador-designate concluded by asserting that history would remember Tinubu’s approach to foreign policy positively, given the careful planning and timing of his international engagements. He stressed that such initiatives help project Nigeria as a responsible and influential player on the global stage.