Tinubu: Why US Secretary Of State Called President-Elect — Media Aide

Tunde Rahman, the media aide to Bola Tinubu, has shared an insight into the call made by the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, to the President-elect.

The call has elicited mixed reactions from Nigerians, particularly former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, who expressed disappointment.

Speaking on the move by Blinken in a chat with Punch, Rahman stated that Tinubu's victory in the 2023 presidential election was acknowledged by the United States because the foreign nation understands the importance of Nigeria among the comity of nations.

“The US is one of the first countries to acknowledge His Excellency Asíwájú Tinubu’s victory, saying the competitive election represented a new period in Nigeria’s history and democracy.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken

“That was in a statement by the State Department Spokesman, Ned Price, on March 1.

“And of course, you should be aware of a recent letter from UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak where he expressed his readiness and delight in working with President-elect Tinubu and even invited him for the Africa-UK investment summit holding next year,” he noted.

Responding to a question on what the call portends for Nigeria, Rahman said: “What does the telephone call portend? It is that the US understands and appreciates the important place of Nigeria in Africa and in the world at large.

“President-elect Tinubu and Secretary of State Antony Blinken agreed to bring about and sustain a mutually-beneficial partnership and relationship.

“Both spoke about their shared values with respect to democracy and diversity and agreed to work together in these areas.

“Secretary Blinken talked about inclusive government. This is what President-elect Tinubu is all about.”