As Donald Trump officially assumes office as the 47th President of the United States, former Nigerian lawmaker and human rights activist Shehu Sani has advised African nations not to expect much from his administration.
In a tweet posted on Monday, January 20, 2024, Sani described Trump’s presidency as a significant challenge to global politics, noting that the former president’s leadership style would disrupt international relations.
Sani predicted that Trump’s return to power would reshape America’s relationships with global organisations and allies, potentially causing discomfort worldwide. He said Trump would seek to reset systems, including the European Union, the United Nations, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
Sani wrote, “Mr Trump takes over the American Presidency today. A disruptor takes power. It’s going to be a great challenge to the World. It’s going to be an American Nationalist and Businessman Vs the World.
“He will pull the plug or change the plugs at the UN, EU, NATO and the American relations with the World.
“He will be feared and not loved and will ultimately face resistance by allies and foes. He will try to reset everything and that is where the discomfort will come. Africa should not expect anything much from Trump, even though Biden didn’t do much either.
“Trump is back and sadly without Mugabe. Trump may be the drug the World needs to wake up or to stay awake. However, the World must not give up or compromise its universal human values.”
Sani expressed scepticism about the impact of Trump’s policies on Africa, suggesting that the continent should brace itself for limited engagement. He also criticised former President Joe Biden’s performance, stating that neither administration had delivered substantial benefits for Africa.
With Trump’s “America First” agenda, the human rights activist warned of potential expansions to the restrictive immigration policies seen during his first term. These measures could include travel bans on several African countries, echoing policies from Trump’s earlier presidency.
Since his re-election two months ago, Trump has been vocal about implementing sweeping changes, particularly in trade and migration policies. Sani’s commentary underscores the apprehension surrounding Trump’s approach to governance, which many believe will upend the existing global order.