Tinubu’s Türkiye Visit Described as Strategic, Not Routine, Says Presidential Adviser

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to Türkiye as a strategic and highly consequential engagement, dismissing claims that it is a routine foreign trip.

Speaking to journalists, Bwala said the visit follows an official invitation from the Turkish government, highlighting Nigeria’s growing diplomatic influence under President Tinubu’s leadership. He emphasized that the President’s stature as a former ECOWAS leader and Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa shaped the reception and expectations surrounding the visit.

“This is not just another trip. It is a strategic visit, first because it is by invitation of the Turkish government. The President of Nigeria is a person of influence in Africa, and Nigeria itself plays a strong role on the continent. With the breakthroughs we are recording in the economy, security and governance, this visit carries significant weight,” Bwala said.

The state visit, which formally began on Tuesday, involves a series of bilateral engagements focused on defence, security, and economic cooperation. Key Ministers accompanying President Tinubu are scheduled to meet their Turkish counterparts to strengthen collaboration across critical sectors.

Bwala also highlighted President Tinubu’s international standing, noting that his leadership has strengthened Nigeria’s global diplomatic relations, including renewed engagement with major partners such as the United States. He cited recent talks with the United Arab Emirates as evidence of Nigeria’s growing momentum on the global stage, with the Türkiye visit building on these gains.

The presidential aide pointed out Türkiye’s strengths in defence and security, particularly in advanced military hardware, which aligns with Nigeria’s security needs, while noting historical support Nigeria has provided to Türkiye. He described the visit as “a meeting of shared interests,” with both nations expected to benefit from enhanced defence cooperation and economic opportunities.

Details of specific agreements and deliverables are expected to be announced at the conclusion of the visit, further consolidating Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.