BE CAREFUL NIGERIA



These external powers appear determined 
to destabilise the region, and Nigeria risks becoming complicit—whether knowingly or not. For years, Nigeria has seen itself as a “big brother” eager to defend democracy across Africa. But here is the uncomfortable reality: Russia is unlikely to relinquish any territory or influence it has gained.

If Nigeria enters into a confrontation with Burkina Faso, it will not be facing a single nation. It would be confronting the entire Sahel alliance—Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali—each governed by military juntas and openly supported by Russia. This would not be a small conflict; it would be a major and potentially catastrophic war. And Russia, with its strategic interests at stake, would not easily back down.

Unfortunately, France’s influence risks pushing Nigeria into a dangerous geopolitical trap. And the most painful part is that none of these foreign powers—whether France, Russia, or even the United States—is acting in the interest of ordinary Africans. Their motivations are rooted in access to resources, gold, strategic influence, and economic power. Africa is being treated as a geopolitical playground where global powers extract what they want while offering little genuine benefit to local populations.

Even recent international engagements—such as the United States under Trump strengthening ties with Rwanda, the DRC, and others—are ultimately driven by mineral interests, not humanitarian concern.
Nigeria must take a lesson from countries like China. Rather than attempting to police the continent or impose democratic order elsewhere, Nigeria should focus inward: strengthening self-sufficiency, securing its borders, resolving internal conflicts, safeguarding its airbases, and stabilising its economy. Because when Nigeria truly needs support, history shows that external partners will prioritise their own national interests.

France’s current posture risks drawing Nigeria into a confrontation shaped by Russia’s strategic calculations. It is vital that Nigeria navigates upcoming diplomatic engagements—such as the BRICS meetings—with caution, clarity, and a firm commitment to national interest. Otherwise, the region could face a dangerous escalation.

Mal. Ahmad M. Salihu 
Work with the Ministry of Education 
Bauchi State

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