A former Presidential Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has publicly called on President Bola Tinubu to address the Nigerian nation personally regarding the recent military invasion threat issued by United States President Donald Trump against the country. In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Thursday, Mr Baba-Ahmed expressed deep concern that the President had yet to personally speak to Nigerians on the development, warning that the silence conveys a troubling message about Nigeria’s leadership.
Mr Baba-Ahmed emphasised that the seriousness of the US threat, which included the President’s order for the Department of War to prepare for a potential offensive invasion of northern Nigeria, demands a presidential response. He wrote, “If President Tinubu truly has capable advisers and understands the weight of his office, he should have spoken to Nigerians by now. This is not the time for ministers or aides to issue statements. The President himself should reassure the country, clarify our position, and outline the steps his administration intends to take. Our silence makes us appear weak and without direction.”
The former adviser also strongly cautioned President Tinubu against any plan to travel to the United States to meet with President Trump. He described such a move as ill-advised, stating, “At this critical moment, Tinubu should not even think of going to America to meet Trump. It would only worsen Nigeria’s image — like receiving a slap and smiling in return.” He argued that a meeting would undermine the nation’s dignity in the face of an external military threat.
Mr Baba-Ahmed urged the President to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and diplomatic standing. He advised: “If Tinubu truly listens to those who care about this country, he must act immediately — appoint ambassadors, rebuild Nigeria’s diplomatic presence, and address the nation directly.” This counsel stresses the need for a strong, unambiguous stance from the highest office to counter the external pressure.
