As a student of the school of political realism, this is not a sentimental argument. It is a practical one. Power in international politics is measured by institutions, leverage, and consistency, not by population size or online confidence.
Nigeria depends on the United States in ways that are structural, not symbolic. Security cooperation, intelligence sharing, access to global finance, dollar liquidity, diplomatic leverage, and credibility in international systems all flow disproportionately from Washington. These links shape Nigeria’s room to maneuver in a competitive and unforgiving global environment.
America’s position is different. U.S. leaders think first about American progress. That focus does not change with administrations. Policy is judged by what strengthens U.S. security, productivity, and influence. Where partnerships help, America engages. Where they do not, America looks elsewhere. Options are always available.
Nigeria’s vulnerability is internal. Too many leaders and advisers confuse ambition with power and potential with performance. The state is often treated as access rather than responsibility. Policy becomes short-term. Institutions weaken. Dependence grows. This is why claims that Nigeria does not need America are not patriotic, they are misleading.
President Tinubu faces a clear leadership test here. Leaders fail fastest when they listen to people who tell them only what they want to hear. Advisers who exaggerate Nigeria’s leverage, or downplay its dependencies, are not helping the country. They are protecting their proximity to power.
This imbalance is not about dignity. It is about discipline. One country guards institutions and plans relentlessly. The other struggles to subordinate personal interest to national purpose.
Realism does not mock this reality. It names it. And naming it clearly is the first step toward changing it.
Abidemi Adebamiwa is the Managing Editor @ Newspot Nigeria
