By Amofokhai Williams
Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu for his frequent international travels while Nigeria grapples with escalating insecurity, economic hardship, and widespread suffering.
In a detailed statement posted on X, Obi expressed dismay over the President’s latest travel itinerary, which includes a 12-day trip to Dubai, Japan, and Brazil, starting today, August 14.
Obi highlighted the stark contrast between the President’s international engagements and the dire situation at home.
He said Nigeria is currently facing severe challenges, including being ranked among the world’s most insecure nations, fragile economies, and hungriest populations.
“Our President, who has not found it worthy to visit any of our troubled states, takes joy in travelling to foreign countries at the slightest invitation or excuse,” Obi stated, questioning the necessity of Tinubu’s prolonged absences.
The President’s itinerary includes a stopover in Dubai before attending the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan, from August 20 to 22. Following this, Tinubu will travel to Brazil.
Obi noted that the itinerary lacks a clear return date, raising concerns about the President’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues.
He contrasted Tinubu’s travel habits with those of leaders from BRICS member countries, who typically attend summits for only a day or two, while Tinubu’s recent trip included a week-long state visit to St. Lucia before the BRICS Summit, where Nigeria was merely an observer.
Obi argued that the President’s frequent and extended trips abroad contribute little tangible value to Nigeria’s woes.
Read Also: Tinubu appoints Louis Odion, Rabiu as FCCPC Executive Commissioners
He suggested that if the Japan trip was necessary, it could have been condensed to five days, given that the TICAD9 event begins six days after Tinubu’s departure.
Calling for a shift in focus, Obi urged the President to prioritize domestic tours of Nigeria’s troubled states with the same enthusiasm shown for international travel.
Such visits, he argued, would allow Tinubu to directly engage with citizens, understand their struggles, and take decisive action.
“Nigeria today demands competent leadership with capacity and compassion,” Obi stated, stressing that Nigerians expect “100% effort and tireless commitment” to addressing the nation’s challenges.
Obi concluded by reminding the President of his role as the Chief Executive of a troubled nation, not a tourist.
He called for a stricter travel schedule that reflects the urgency of Nigeria’s crises and demonstrates a commitment to resolving them.
“Nigerians know that our huge problems cannot be solved overnight, but they want to see effort and sacrifice,” he said.
