The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) notes with concern the latest remarks made by Mr. Peter Obi regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official trip abroad. Mr. Obi’s comments, couched in emotional rhetoric, demonstrate a persistent misunderstanding of both governance and global diplomacy.
President Tinubu’s current travel itinerary is not a leisure tour, as Mr. Obi has insinuated, but part of a strategic international engagement to reposition Nigeria on the global economic and diplomatic stage. At a time when our nation is seeking partnerships, investments, and solutions to shared global challenges, the presence of our President at multilateral forums like the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is not only appropriate — it is essential.
We remind Mr. Obi that leadership in the 21st century does not operate in isolation. Our challenges — economic revitalization, climate resilience, energy access, and security cooperation — require international collaboration, not insular thinking. President Tinubu’s engagements with foreign leaders are informed by a vision of building a stable, secure, and prosperous Nigeria, with partners who understand our reality and are willing to support us.
Mr. Obi, who has himself toured foreign capitals in search of sympathy for a rejected electoral bid, should understand that diplomacy is not optional — it is a duty of leadership. While he asks why the President visits foreign countries, we ask why he consistently disregards the significance of high-level diplomacy in attracting aid, forging security partnerships, and expanding trade.
Rather than distort facts, Mr. Obi should acknowledge the visible progress being made:
• Stabilization of the naira and moderation of inflation.
• Attracting multi-billion-dollar commitments in infrastructure, energy, and digital economy.
• Improved bilateral security cooperation, especially in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.
Let it be clear: Nigeria is not bleeding — Nigeria is rebuilding, and that work is being done both at home and abroad. The President’s travel schedule reflects a strategic prioritization of Nigeria’s long-term interests, not neglect.
Finally, the Lagos APC urges Mr. Obi and the Labour Party to rise above politicized commentary and contribute meaningfully to national discourse. Nigerians deserve sober reflection, not alarmist rhetoric.
President Tinubu remains fully committed to the service of the Nigerian people, whether from Abuja, Yokohama, or anywhere his duty calls.
Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo.
Lagos APC Spokesman.
14/08/25.
