Phrank Shaibu, the Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has urged the federal government to exercise caution in its dealings with France.
Shaibu’s remarks come amidst what he described as a diplomatic crisis involving France and its former colonies in West Africa.
France has long been accused of maintaining a firm grip on the region, prompting concerns over its intentions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Shaibu stressed that Nigeria’s relationship with France must prioritize the country’s sovereignty, dignity, and leadership in Africa.
“While the motivations behind this newfound partnership remain speculative, one thing is clear: France’s interest in Nigeria is not altruistic.
It is rooted in self-preservation and the desperate attempt to maintain a foothold in a region that has increasingly grown hostile to its machinations,” he said.
He warned that the administration of President Bola Tinubu must proceed cautiously to ensure Nigeria does not become a pawn in France’s strategy to regain influence in West Africa.
“For Nigeria, the stakes are high. Any alliance with France must be scrutinized through the lens of national interest and historical experience,” he added.
Shaibu emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford to be relegated to a subservient role in any alliance with France, given the country’s history of exploitation.
“The question, therefore, is not just where this alliance is heading, but whether it is worth the price Nigeria may have to pay.
Only time will tell if this partnership will serve Nigeria’s interests or if it will reduce the nation to yet another pawn in France’s relentless quest for dominance in Africa,” Shaibu concluded.
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