By Muhammad Mamman
Nigerian politician Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing the trip as misplaced at a time when Nigeria is grappling with pressing domestic challenges.
Rhodes-Vivour argued that the president’s focus should remain on addressing the country’s economic hardship, rising insecurity, and growing public discontent, rather than embarking on foreign engagements he says do little to immediately ease the burden on Nigerians.
The former Lagos governorship candidate questioned the timing of the visit, noting that millions of citizens continue to face soaring living costs and uncertainty. He stressed that leadership demands prioritising urgent national issues over international appearances.
President Tinubu’s trip to the UK is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and attracting investment. However, critics say such visits risk appearing disconnected from the realities at home, particularly as many Nigerians struggle with inflation and reduced purchasing power.
The presidency has yet to directly respond to Rhodes-Vivour’s remarks, but officials have repeatedly defended foreign trips as essential to economic recovery plans and global partnerships.
The criticism adds to a broader debate within Nigeria over governance priorities, with opposition voices increasingly calling for a sharper focus on domestic reforms and tangible relief for citizens.
