Former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines and veteran broadcaster, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against visiting former U.S. President Donald Trump, describing the move as “politically insensitive and diplomatically unnecessary.”
Farounbi issued the warning during an exclusive interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5FM, Ilese-Ijebu.
His comment followed Trump’s recent remark labeling Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians — a classification that could attract sanctions and restrictions on military cooperation and foreign investment.
Trump had also hinted Nigeria could lose U.S. aid if insecurity and religious killings are not addressed.
“Tinubu should not go and meet Trump,” Farounbi said firmly.
“Nigeria’s president represents the soul of over 200 million people. He should not visit anyone who once called African nations ‘shithole countries.’ We must act like a nation that values itself, not one begging to be recognized.”
Farounbi argued that the U.S. designation was a direct consequence of Nigeria’s poor diplomatic engagement and silence on global platforms.
“We cannot claim we didn’t see this coming,” he said.
“Catholic bishops from Benue and Plateau have appeared before U.S. Congress and European Parliament presenting figures of Christians killed. Nigeria offered no strong counter-narrative.”
He lamented that Nigeria has been without a substantive ambassador in Washington for years, allowing lobbyists and activists to shape international perception.
“Our story was never told officially,” Farounbi said.
“When you refuse to speak for yourself, others will speak for you — and they won’t tell your story fairly.”
His criticism comes days after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that Washington may take action against Nigeria following reports of religious killings.
Farounbi warned that the designation could harm Nigeria’s economy, security relations, and investment climate.
“When a nation is profiled as unsafe or intolerant, investors stay away,” he said.
“It can limit access to aid, military technology and intelligence sharing.”
He faulted Nigeria’s reactive diplomacy:“The world no longer listens when you speak only after being accused. Diplomacy is proactive, not defensive.”
Farounbi noted that religious tensions and insecurity inside Nigeria worsened foreign suspicion.
“We allowed divisions to fester. If we protect all citizens regardless of faith or ethnicity, no one abroad can accuse us of persecution.”
He urged the Federal Government to pursue justice and strengthen security without propaganda.
‘Tinubu Must Rebuild Nigeria’s Image — Not Chase Validation’
The former envoy insisted President Tinubu should focus on rebuilding trust and credibility globally rather than seeking meetings that undermine national pride.
“President Tinubu should not travel the world seeking validation from those who insulted Africa,” he said.
“Let us earn respect by our conduct, not demand it by proximity.”
Farounbi called for a professional diplomatic corps, stronger embassies, and sustained global engagement.
> “No PR campaign can save a nation whose actions do not reflect justice and accountability.”
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