Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice-President, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Paris, France, asserting that Nigeria requires effective leadership rather than a “Paris menu.” This statement comes amidst growing concerns over the nation’s economic challenges and security issues. The presidency’s recent briefing, detailing who the president lunched and dined with in Paris, has been labeled a “textbook case of misplaced priorities and official shamelessness” by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu. At a time when Nigerians are grappling with severe hunger, widespread insecurity, collapsing businesses, and an escalating cost-of-living crisis, focusing on such details is seen as a disconnect from the urgent needs of the populace. The ongoing attacks in communities like Niger State and the inability of families to afford basic food items highlight the severity of the situation. The presidency’s engagement with discussions about camera phones, image quality, and photo editing, while these critical issues persist, is viewed as a profound lack of leadership. Why is Tinubu’s plate empty? This question resonates with the public’s demand for substantive governance, not superficial reports. Nigerians are not asking for a “Paris menu”; they are demanding leadership that addresses their pressing concerns. The controversy surrounding claims of AI or forgery in official communications is also a point of contention. A presidency that has been repeatedly involved in debates over questionable documents finds it difficult to garner trust when expressing shock at public skepticism. When credibility is diminished, doubt is an inevitable consequence. Instead of addressing the root cause of this erosion of trust, the Presidency is perceived as lecturing Nigerians and attacking the media. The fundamental falsehood lies not in a photograph, but in the daily misrepresentation of leadership priorities. Nigeria is facing a crisis, and the current approach is exacerbating the situation. It is imperative for the Presidency to cease public relations theatrics, return to Nigeria, and urgently confront the emergencies plaguing the nation, including hunger, insecurity, and economic collapse, with a demeanor of humility and decisive action. This is the absolute minimum expectation from the Nigerian people. The focus should be on practical solutions and tangible results, not on the optics of international engagements when domestic crises loom large. Understanding the public’s sentiment and prioritizing their welfare is the hallmark of responsible governance. The current approach risks further alienating the citizens and deepening the existing challenges. A shift in focus towards addressing the core issues is crucial for restoring confidence and fostering national progress. The effectiveness of leadership is measured by its ability to deliver results that positively impact the lives of ordinary citizens, especially during times of hardship. The perceived disconnect between the administration’s actions and the people’s suffering is a significant concern that needs immediate attention. The narrative needs to pivot from superficial briefings to concrete policy implementations that offer relief and stability.
