Bolaji Akinyemi, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria, has voiced his support for the recent state visit to the United Kingdom, characterizing it as a strong indication of Nigeria's significance on the global stage. He cautioned against the politicization of such important diplomatic engagements, especially those of this scale.
In a discussion with ARISE NEWS on Friday, Akinyemi insisted that the focus should instead be on the importance of the visit rather than the criticisms regarding its timing. He believes that the welcoming reception received from King Charles III serves as a testimony to Nigeria's ongoing relevance amidst global affairs.
Akinyemi stated, "The visit has been described as historic, symbolic, and cultural... what we should be talking about is the significance rather than attempting to determine whether it should have taken place."
He praised the grandeur and meticulous nature of the royal reception at Windsor, which, according to him, underlined Britain's esteem for Nigeria. "You cannot diminish the splendor of the occasion orchestrated by the king. When it comes to protocol, the British excel. Nothing was overlooked," Akinyemi added.
The former minister pointed out significant symbolic factors, especially noting that the visit coincided with Ramadan and was only the second time a Muslim head of state was hosted in such a manner. He also indicated that this was Nigeria's first invitation for a state visit in nearly 40 years.
"This marks the first time in 37 years that a Nigerian head of state has been invited for a state visit. There’s a meaning to that," he remarked.
Responding to the criticism that the visit should have been delayed due to the tragedy in Maiduguri, he firmly stated, "The incident in Maiduguri was a tragedy that affects Nigeria's image... it is something to mourn over. However, you cannot reschedule a state visit at the last minute because of an unforeseen event. Disasters occur, but state functions must proceed."
Akinyemi mentioned that canceling the visit at such short notice would have been diplomatically inappropriate, stating, "One does not do that to Britain, or the United States. Would you leave all these dignitaries waiting due to circumstances beyond your control? Absolutely not."
The former minister expressed his appreciation towards King Charles III for hosting a complete ceremonial program, which included a state dinner. "As a Nigerian, I extend my gratitude to King Charles III for organizing such an event and ensuring its full execution," he expressed, also praising the discipline and organization involved in British protocol. "I hope Nigerian protocols were observing... there was no rushing, no pushing. Everyone understood their roles."
Akinyemi believed that the visit conveyed a broader geopolitical signal: "This was not just a message to Nigerians that we are better than we perceive ourselves; it is also an indication to the international community that if Great Britain values Nigeria, the world ought to recognize this too."
On local reactions to the visit, he denounced the attempts to infuse politics into such diplomatic matters. He quoted Winston Churchill, stating, "Politics cease at the shoreline... I feel disheartened when political matters are involved in situations like this, suggesting a lack of understanding about the importance of these events."
He also commented on the optics related to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the visit, especially given the concerns regarding his health. "To see the president ascend those steps... especially after the events in Turkey, sent a message that although he has health issues, they are manageable. They may have an older individual as president, but he is not incapacitated," he said.
However, Akinyemi expressed disappointment in the manner of reception by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "I was not content with the interaction with the prime minister... there was no justification for him not to have met President Tinubu in a manner akin to his meeting with President Zelenskyy," he remarked.
On the diplomatic front, he emphasized that Nigeria must adopt a more decisive approach in negotiations, including addressing unresolved historical matters. "The British have a tendency to overlook what they owe you, while they remain silent on those discussions," he noted, drawing from his past interactions, including those with former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
He advocated for Nigeria to bring up issues such as compensation for historical injustices, underscoring, "We should have highlighted this... not in discussions with the king, but during talks with the government."
Regarding legal matters and the calls for intervention in notable cases, Akinyemi warned against political meddling. "There are numerous Nigerians. We should heed this lesson: adhere to the law and permit it to take its course... I am not an advocate for political involvement in judicial matters," he stated.
Reflecting on the dynamics between elected officials and royal figures, Akinyemi acknowledged the complexities involved. "In some respects, presidents are subordinate to kings; however, during political discussions, you must assert your position," he affirmed, recalling similar challenges from his tenure in office.
In summary, he urged the necessity for Nigeria to capitalize on the progress made during the visit through strategic diplomacy and disciplined engagement, emphasizing that the true value of such visits lies beyond mere ceremonial aspects but in their long-term benefits for the nation.
In the aftermath of the pageantry in London, many Nigerians are dealing with grief and anger as families in Maiduguri mourn their losses, highlighting a stark contrast between international diplomacy and the pressing issues of insecurity at home, where citizens continue to call for not only robust international relationships but also decisive measures to ensure their safety.
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