Bola Tinubu: The Safest President in Africa? A Look at Nigeria’s Political Trailblazer
In the evolving political landscape of Africa, few names stand out as prominently as Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of Nigeria. Often referred to by his supporters as the “safest president in Africa” and sometimes called the “Nigerian ruler,” Tinubu has garnered admiration and controversy in equal measure. His political journey from a pro-democracy activist to the most powerful man in Africa’s most populous nation offers insight into leadership, resilience, and the complexity of African governance.
The Rise of a Political Titan
Bola Tinubu’s political career dates back to the early 1990s, during Nigeria’s turbulent transition from military to civilian rule. He initially rose to prominence as a dedicated member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a passionate group committed to challenging military rule and championing the cause of democracy of the 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Moshood Abiola. Tinubu’s involvement in this struggle established his reputation as a pro-democracy advocate and reformist.
In 1999, when Nigeria returned to civilian rule, Tinubu was elected as the governor of Lagos State, the country’s economic nerve center. Over his eight-year tenure, he transformed Lagos into a hub of economic activity, with significant improvements in infrastructure, taxation, and internal revenue generation. This period of transformation laid the foundation for the political mythos that would come to define him.
His political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), was a coalition he helped form in 2013, merging several opposition parties to challenge the then-dominant People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This move eventually led to the historic election of Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, marking the first time an incumbent president lost reelection in Nigeria. Tinubu’s role in orchestrating this political upset underscored his status as a kingmaker and strategist.
Tinubu’s Political Machinery
What sets Tinubu apart from many African leaders is his ability to build and sustain a formidable political network. Often dubbed the “godfather” of Nigerian politics, he has been instrumental in shaping the political careers of numerous politicians, many of whom now occupy strategic positions in Nigeria’s political structure.
The Safest President?
The label “safest president in Africa” is as much symbolic as it is political. For some, it signifies Tinubu’s deep entrenchment in Nigeria’s power structure, making him virtually untouchable. For others, it refers to his ability to navigate Nigeria’s volatile political terrain with remarkable survival instincts.
Nigeria faces numerous challenges—security threats from Boko Haram in the northeast, banditry and kidnapping in the northwest, separatist agitations in the southeast, and widespread economic hardship. Despite these issues, Tinubu has managed to maintain relative political stability, avoid large-scale unrest, and keep his administration intact. In a continent where coups, insurgencies, and mass protests have become increasingly common, his presidency is seen by supporters as a beacon of security and continuity.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, is known for having one of the highest and most expensive personal security arrangements among African leaders. There are several reasons why his security is so tight and costly: due to the following reasons
1. Nigeria’s Complex Security Challenges
Nigeria faces multiple internal security threats:
- Terrorism: Groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to operate, especially in the northeast.
- Banditry and Kidnapping: Armed groups in the northwest and central regions frequently attack civilians and abduct people for ransom.
- Separatist Movements: In the southeast, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing have been linked to violent actions and threats against the state.
- Oil Theft and Militancy: In the Niger Delta, oil theft and militancy remain security concerns.
As the head of state, Tinubu is a high-value target for enemies of the Nigerian government. These threats demand a strong and expensive security detail to ensure his safety.
2. Political Tensions and Opposition
Tinubu’s rise to power has not been without controversy. His 2023 election victory was hotly contested by opposition parties. Some citizens and political opponents view his administration as illegitimate or flawed, leading to protests and, in some cases, threats.
Due to these tensions, his security is heightened to prevent any possible attacks or disruptions during public appearances and official duties.
3. Historical Assassinations and Coups in Nigeria
Nigeria has a history of military coups and political assassinations. Former leaders have been overthrown or attacked, especially during politically unstable periods. Because of this history, Nigerian presidents traditionally maintain tight security as a precautionary measure.
Tinubu, aware of these historical precedents, likely prioritizes personal and state security to avoid any attempt on his life or a disruption of his presidency.
4. Tinubu’s Political Profile and Influence
Tinubu is not just a president; he is a long-time political godfather and a major power broker in Nigerian politics. His influence extends far beyond his official role. That kind of visibility and influence comes with risks, including from rivals, disgruntled political actors, or criminal networks that may feel threatened by his power.
His background as a kingmaker, and the many enemies he may have made over decades of political maneuvering, justify a comprehensive security arrangement.
5. Modern Security Standards
Like many world leaders, Tinubu’s office follows international standards for presidential protection, which involve:
- Advanced surveillance systems
- Well-trained security personnel
- Armored vehicles and convoys
- Helicopter and aerial support
- Emergency medical teams on standby
These modern protocols come at a high cost. But for a president in a high-risk country like Nigeria, these expenses are often considered necessary.
6. Public Image and Prestige
There is also a symbolic aspect to presidential security. In many African countries, the way a leader moves—surrounded by heavily armed escorts, bulletproof cars, and military presence—reflects power, control, and authority. For some politicians, it reinforces the idea that they are untouchable or indispensable.
Tinubu’s security setup may partly serve to strengthen this image of dominance, especially as someone who is sometimes called the “Nigerian ruler” by his loyalists.
Governance and Policy Direction
Since assuming the presidency in May 2023, Tinubu has embarked on several bold reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy. One of the most controversial was the removal of the long-standing fuel subsidy, a move praised by international observers but criticized by local citizens for increasing the cost of living.
Additionally, Tinubu’s administration has pursued policies to unify the exchange rate, attract foreign investment, and stabilize the naira. He has also pledged to overhaul the security architecture, improve infrastructure, and create jobs for Nigeria’s booming youth population.
Despite these intentions, the road has not been smooth. Many Nigerians are frustrated with the slow pace of change and the worsening economic conditions. Inflation has spiked, and unemployment remains high. Yet, Tinubu’s government insists these pains are temporary sacrifices necessary for long-term stability and growth.
Controversies and Criticism
No African leader escapes scrutiny, and Tinubu is no exception. Critics point to allegations of corruption, opaque finances, and authoritarian tendencies. His political dominance in Lagos has raised questions about democratic fairness and the concentration of power.
Moreover, his election victory in 2023 was hotly contested. Though ultimately upheld by Nigeria’s Supreme Court, opposition parties and civil society groups raised concerns about electoral irregularities and voter suppression. These controversies continue to taint his presidency in the eyes of some Nigerians.
A Vision for the Future
Tinubu’s presidency arrives at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history. As Africa’s most populous nation, with over 200 million people—many of them young and ambitious—Nigeria stands at the threshold of significant change. Its abundant natural resources, strategic regional influence, and entrepreneurial spirit offer immense opportunities for economic growth and development.
However, the real test lies in whether President Tinubu can translate this potential into tangible progress. Issues such as insecurity, unemployment, corruption, and infrastructural deficits continue to hamper national development. His ability to enact meaningful reforms, foster unity, and attract investment will determine not only the success of his administration but also Nigeria’s trajectory in the years to come.
In many ways, Tinubu’s leadership could define a new chapter for Nigeria—and possibly for the African continent as a whole.
Supporters believe his political savvy, experience, and reformist agenda position him as the right leader for the times. They argue that he is building a foundation for long-term growth, despite short-term discomforts. To them, his calm amid chaos, resilience, and extensive political machinery make him not only the “safest” president but also the most prepared to lead Nigeria through turbulent waters.
Bola Tinubu’s legacy is still in the making. As president of Africa’s largest democracy and economy, his actions reverberate beyond Nigeria’s borders. While the label “safest president in Africa” may be subjective and debated, it reflects the perception of a leader deeply rooted in his nation’s politics, one who has weathered many storms and emerged with his power intact.
In the end, whether Tinubu will be remembered as a transformative leader or merely a political survivor depends on the success of his reforms, the integrity of his administration, and his ability to unite a divided nation. For now, his story continues to unfold—one calculated step at a time