President Bola Tinubu has described the recent shutdown of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as a wake-up call for Africa, urging the continent to take charge of its development.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the official launch of former Head of State Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography and a fundraiser for the IBB Presidential Library, Tinubu highlighted the revelations linked to the shutdown, including alleged terror financing, as a call to action for African nations.
“I’m glad about what is happening in America and Europe—the contradictions we are seeing now. What is it telling us? It’s telling us to wake up and make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.
The USAID shutdown follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 90-day freeze on all U.S. foreign assistance, including over $40 billion allocated for international projects. Trump justified the move as necessary to align USAID operations with his “America First” agenda.
Although later exemptions were made for lifesaving humanitarian aid, the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., was closed, and staff were instructed to stay away. USAID’s leadership was dismissed or placed on disciplinary leave, while its website and internal systems remained inaccessible.
In a controversial development, U.S. Congressman Perry Scott alleged that USAID had been funding terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, intensifying scrutiny on the agency.
At the Abuja event, Tinubu acknowledged the presence of key Nigerian leaders, emphasizing their shared responsibility in nation-building. He expressed appreciation for the patience and perseverance of those committed to Nigeria’s progress.
“The revolutionary courage that brought leadership out to build our country must continue. I want to thank all of you for your mandate, patience, and perseverance,” he said.
Reflecting on Babangida’s influence, Tinubu credited the former military leader with inspiring a new generation of political figures, including himself. He recalled interactions at Dodan Barracks, where Babangida’s progressive policies shaped Nigeria’s banking sector and political landscape.
“Without you, people like me would not be in politics. Your progressive revolution encouraged young, brilliant people to step into leadership,” Tinubu noted.
He also reminisced about a critical moment when Babangida delayed the inauguration of elected officials. Despite concerns that his outspokenness might land him in trouble, Babangida responded with a handshake, an event Tinubu said he would never forget.
On Babangida’s legacy, Tinubu praised his role in Nigeria’s financial sector, recalling how his administration issued licenses for new-generation banks, transforming the country’s economy.
Concluding his remarks, Tinubu pledged to make tough but necessary decisions in the nation’s best interest, following Babangida’s example.
“All I can promise as President is to strive to do my best, make the best decisions, no matter how difficult, and act in the supreme interest of the country,” Tinubu stated.
The event celebrated Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s history, with Tinubu reaffirming his commitment to governance that prioritizes national development.
