BY MUHAMMAD M. ALI, JANUARY 23, 2026 | 05:04 PM
I have immense respect for Comrade Shehu Sani. I admire both his undiluted love for human development—which, rather than state interests, informed his socialist background—and his commitment to Nigeria's prosperity. This is evident in his courage to speak the truth to power, specifically to those of President Tinubu’s caliber, as seen during his lecture at last year’s Independence Day celebrations.
Having followed his work for many years, I do not feel I have the pedigree to counter his thoughts; I can only agree, contribute, or both.
This is why I titled this piece as I did, rather than framing it as a mere "Response to Shehu Sani's tribute to America’s 250th anniversary of independence." I wish to address two things: Sani’s perspective on what constitutes development, and his subtle transformation into a Western puppet—a clear mismatch with his socialist principles. Sani's tribute has encouraged Nigerians to view the United States as a "good friend," suggesting that the benefits of this friendship outweigh issues like Donald Trump's handling of Nigerian security and global politics.
The second issue this piece addresses is the persistent mockery of International Relations and Diplomacy as a discipline by Reno Omokri, who seems to believe that parading in cultural attire on foreign streets is the primary ingredient for improving Nigeria's image or providing foreign service.
Sani's tribute began by implicitly acknowledging Trump's flaws, distancing America's history from Trump's current behavior. He implied that Trump is merely tarnishing America's reputation, echoing a sentiment held by many Americans. However, Sani's comments focused on the perceived goodwill of the U.S. prior to Trump. He noted that U.S. interventions in health, education, and human capital development are unequaled by any other nation claiming friendship with Nigeria.
What struck me most, however, was Sani’s expression of gratitude for the impact the U.S. had on him personally after he was invited to study their political system. In his words: "A program that drove us through the US Government, governance system, academic and scientific streams, industry and research." This leads me to wonder: will Comrade Sani continue to appreciate the U.S. regardless of the harm they may cause his country?
As a student of history specializing in international history and diplomacy, I believe Comrade Sani has mistaken cultural diplomacy for pure goodwill. Such interventions are often "face-saving" initiatives designed to brand a country’s image as "good" regardless of its underlying foreign policy. Unfortunately, Sani appears to have fallen into this trap. It seems the seed of U.S. cultural diplomacy, sown in Sani's socialist heart years ago, has finally germinated.
Consequently, many in Sani's position may see nothing wrong with exorbitant U.S.-Nigeria arms deals, even when those deals come with restrictive conditions. Sani’s tribute suggests we should overlook the harm caused by U.S. policy simply so that USAID may continue its operations.
Unlike Sani, I do not see the U.S. as a friend to Nigeria. A true friend does not inspire division within your home. I am not surprised, however, as history shows the U.S. was among those who supported the Biafran secession. Whether the "Christian Genocide" allegations are an extension of this past sentiment remains to be seen, but the pattern is familiar.
In terms of historical trajectories, I find European nations to be more predictable "friends" than the U.S. Despite the evils of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and colonialism, one cannot deny that the introduction of crops (of American origin) like maize, cassava, and tomatoes by Europeans from the 15th century onward encouraged the settlement and nation-building that eventually formed many communities of West Africa including Nigeria.
Do not get me wrong. Cultural diplomacy is a useful tool, but citizens must understand it is exactly that: a tool, not an act of selfless goodwill. Nigeria should employ similar tactics—perhaps by intervening in the dilapidated slum communities of New York or Chicago to project our own influence. Are we even doing that to our immediate neighbours?
Finally, Reno Omokri—who has allegedly stated that International Relations and History are no longer necessary courses of study due to the development of AI—should realize that effective foreign service means influencing Americans, Europeans, and Asians to wear our clothes and sing our praises, just as Sani is currently singing for the United States, rather than making them laugh at us for wearing our attire.
Muhammad M. Ali write from Borno.
Conflict Reporting is dangerous and risky. Our reporters constantly face life-threatening challenges, sometimes surviving ambushes, kidnap attempts and attacks by the whiskers as they travel and go into communities to get authentic and firsthand information. But we dare it every day, nonetheless, in order to keep you informed of the true situation of the victims, the trends in the conflicts and ultimately help in peace building processes. But these come at huge cost to us. We are therefore appealing to you to help our cause by donating to us through any of the following means. You can also donate working tools, which are even more primary to our work. We thank you sincerely as you help our cause.
Alternatively, you can also email us on
info@yen.ng or message us
via +234 803 931 7767
