Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and current Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), has drawn a parallel between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and President Donald Trump, describing them as “equally intelligent and strategic.”
The comparison was reportedly made during a press briefing where Dabiri-Erewa was discussing the importance of strategic leadership in national and international affairs. While the specific context of her comments is not fully detailed, the comparison centers on the political and strategic acumen of both leaders.
Key points of the comparison:
- Political Strategy: Both leaders are known for their unconventional and often populist political strategies. President Tinubu, a veteran politician, is renowned for his ability to build formidable political alliances, outmaneuver opponents, and maintain a powerful political structure in his home state of Lagos.1 Similarly, Donald Trump’s rise to power was marked by a highly successful and non-traditional approach to campaigning, bypassing conventional political norms.
- Intelligence: The comparison highlights the intellectual and strategic depth of both figures. While their public personas may differ, Dabiri-Erewa’s remarks suggest she views both as highly intelligent individuals who have demonstrated a clear and calculated approach to achieving their political goals.
- Media and Public Perception: Both leaders have a complex and often polarizing relationship with the media and the public. They are both known for their assertive communication styles and for having a dedicated base of supporters while facing significant opposition.
The comparison, coming from a high-ranking government official, reflects a perspective that sees a shared element of political mastery between the two leaders, regardless of their different political systems and cultural contexts. The remarks may also be aimed at positioning President Tinubu as a powerful and decisive figure on the global stage.
