Public Affairs Analyst and President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, Dr. Victor Okhai, has expressed hope that a Trump presidency could foster a more favourable environment for Nigeria.
In a recent interview with Arise News on Tuesday, while addressing the absence of discussions about Africa in the 2024 US election candidates’ campaigns, Okhai remarked,
“Quite frankly, I think right now where the focus is America.” He suggested that a Trump presidency might unintentionally benefit Africa, including Nigeria, by allowing the country to focus on its internal priorities without the pressures of foreign influence.
He argued that while Trump’s administration may seem unfavourable at first glance, it could actually prompt Nigeria to become more self-reliant and innovative.
“For too long we have been reliant on foreign aid,” he said. “I think in Trump presidency, Africa will be more favourable, especially in Nigeria – A Trump presidency will give us an opportunity for growth because then we can look at where our priorities are.”
Okhai emphasised the unpredictable nature of the election, stating, “The beauty of this election is it’s not very clear; it can swing both ways.” He noted that both candidates are currently neck-to-neck in the polls, and the stakes have never been higher.
Issues such as immigration and abortion rights are at the forefront, along with deeply rooted racial concerns. He pointed out that Trump, despite his controversial persona, remains a formidable force, He stated, “As Trump may appear, he is still a very strong force because there are those who probably want to maintain the status quo as it is.”
When asked about the potential impact of Trump’s rhetoric on the African continent, Okhai acknowledged the complexities of his approach. “What Trump is really doing, if he appears fascist, racist and all that, he is just trying to reinforce the thoughts of these groups of people so that he can maintain their votes,” he noted.
Okhai also addressed the Nigerian obsession with American elections, which he described as “an obsession that we have.” He pointed out that this fixation is akin to a modern form of slavery, as many of Nigeria’s brightest talents seek opportunities abroad, leaving a gap in local development.
“This time around, it is brains… our brightest and our best have been taken away,” he said.
He expressed hope that these individuals would eventually return to Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s political and economic landscape.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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