Senator Jimoh Ibrahim has dismissed concerns that President Bola Tinubu’s engagement with BRICS could create tensions with a potential Donald Trump-led U.S. administration.
Key Points from Ibrahim’s Statement:
Tinubu’s Leadership Approach: Aligns with liberal democratic values, making friction with the U.S. unlikely.
Nigeria-U.S. Relations: Strong historical ties will help maintain stable bilateral relations.
BRICS+ Partnership: Nigeria accepted an invitation in January 2025, signaling new economic alignments.
China’s Influence in Africa: China is expanding its economic ties, including proposals for trade in the Yuan.
Geopolitical Power Shift: Africa is becoming a strategic battleground between the U.S. and China.
Ibrahim on China’s Strategy:
China has funded infrastructure projects (airports, seaports, etc.) to gain legitimacy in Africa.
China approached Tinubu about trading in Yuan, but Tinubu demanded better trade benefits first.
Africa’s Strategic Role:
Both the U.S. and China see Africa as crucial to global power dynamics.
Nigeria’s participation in BRICS positions it as a key player in shaping global economic trends.
