Bola Tinubu intelligence praised by Prof. Akinterinwa, who says Tinubu is as smart and strategic as Donald Trump despite skipping the 2024 UN General Assembly
Bola Tinubu intelligence has been described as equal to, if not greater than, that of former U.S. President Donald Trump, according to a leading Nigerian foreign affairs expert.
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Professor Bola Akinterinwa, a former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), made the remarks on Channels Television on Friday, defending President Tinubu’s absence from the 2024 United Nations General Assembly.
He argued that missing the high-level diplomatic event should not be misinterpreted as weakness or diplomatic miscalculation.
Instead, he said it reflects a strategic decision in line with Tinubu’s methodical leadership style.
“At the end of the day, when you are seen to be at par with your colleagues, in which way are you going to say that Donald Trump is better than Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, He’s not,” Akinterinwa stated.
“Tinubu is as intelligent, if not more intelligent, than Trump. He is more cautious and more strategic in his approach.”
The seasoned diplomat stressed that global diplomacy often hinges on hierarchy and protocol, pointing out that Vice President Kashim Shettima’s attendance in Tinubu’s place had its limitations.
“In diplomacy, water must always find its own level.
A vice president cannot easily engage with world leaders who are senior to him,” he added.
He also cited Trump’s famously unpredictable behaviour and his tendency to dismiss leaders from countries pursuing independent foreign policies.
“Trump thinks after action, not before action,” Akinterinwa observed.
“He wants to be seen as primus inter pares.
Tinubu, on the other hand, is more deliberate and measured — a quality much needed in today’s volatile geopolitical environment.”
Bola Tinubu intelligence was also showcased during his 2023 appearance at the 78th UNGA, where he delivered Nigeria’s national address.
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His absence at the 79th session this year has not, according to Akinterinwa, diminished Nigeria’s stature or influence.
