Former Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, recently spoke out about the results of the US election, expressing disappointment in what he described as a “victory for crudity over refinement.” In an interview with ARISE NEWS, Akinyemi voiced concerns over the values reflected by the outcome, suggesting that it harms America’s role as a global model of democracy and integrity.
Akinyemi, who first visited the United States in 1962, recalled a time when he admired America for its rational approach to governance and values. He questioned how a society could support a candidate facing criminal charges and accused of attempting to disrupt an election. “What message does this send to the rest of the world?” he asked, emphasizing that the result casts doubts on the values America promotes.
He stressed the impact of the election outcome on nations in the Global South, like Nigeria, where democracy, decency, and honesty are still aspirational values. Akinyemi observed that many voters in the US are more concerned with day-to-day survival than long-term issues like climate change, prioritizing immediate economic needs over broader global impacts.
Turning to Nigeria, Akinyemi called for a focus on self-reliance and reducing dependency on foreign aid. Nigeria, he argued, has vast natural resources—gas, crude oil, and the recently launched Dangote refinery—that could boost its economic independence. By leveraging these assets, Akinyemi believes Nigeria could strengthen its currency and improve its economy. He urged Nigeria to support these resources to generate foreign exchange and reduce reliance on loans and aid from other nations.
Akinyemi also addressed the importance of improving non-oil exports, suggesting that reducing bureaucracy at ports could make Nigerian products more competitive. He recalled that during former President Jonathan’s administration, there were efforts to cut down on redundant agencies that delayed exports. Restoring this efficiency, he believes, would allow Nigerian exports to thrive on the global market.
Reflecting on the achievements of Nigerians abroad, Akinyemi noted influential figures like Benedict Oramah of Afreximbank, Akinwumi Adesina of the African Development Bank, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of the World Trade Organisation. He emphasized that with such talented citizens ready to assist, Nigeria has the potential to build a self-sufficient future by harnessing its resources and encouraging economic growth.
