‘No Tangible Benefit for Nigerians’ – Rhodes-Viviour Criticizes Tinubu’s Frequent Foreign Trips Amid Economic Strain

Former Lagos State Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Viviour, has questioned the relevance of President Bola Tinubu’s overseas trips, arguing that they offer little to Nigerians facing mounting economic pressures.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, Rhodes-Viviour, now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), specifically flagged Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, highlighting domestic challenges such as rising fuel prices.

“The President has spent a significant amount of time travelling abroad while the people are experiencing extreme hardship. That is unprecedented,” Rhodes-Viviour said. “Considering the pain Nigerians are dealing with, particularly higher petrol and diesel prices, I don’t think this visit is a priority right now.”

He further argued that while foreign trips may enhance Tinubu’s international image and lend political legitimacy, they offer negligible benefits to ordinary Nigerians. “Visiting abroad may add legitimacy and credibility to his position as President. It is good for him, his image, and his party, but I don’t see how it benefits the average Nigerian. For him, certainly, it is beneficial.”

President Tinubu is currently in the UK for a state visit, accompanied by First Lady Remi Tinubu and top government officials. The visit, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, is scheduled from March 18 to 19 and marks the first Nigerian presidential visit to Britain in 37 years.

According to the presidency, the trip aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore avenues for bilateral collaboration, although critics continue to question its timing given Nigeria’s domestic economic challenges.