President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who goofed described Nigeria as the largest city in West Africa, instead of country, saying is facing growing insecurity driven by terrorism from ”ZaHell” instead of Sahel region and climate change.
He made the remarks during talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, where both leaders discussed regional security and cooperation.
He pointed to ongoing crises in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, saying that unrest in these neighboring countries is spreading across borders and contributing to insecurity in Nigeria.
He also emphasized the role of climate change, explaining that desertification, shrinking water resources, and loss of farmland are pushing communities into conflict. In northern Nigeria, competition over land and water between farmers and herders has intensified over the years, sometimes turning violent and feeding into broader insecurity.
Tinubu’s comments reflect a widely discussed view among policymakers that regional instability and environmental stress contribute to the conditions in which armed groups operate. International organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank have also reported links between climate pressures, poverty, and conflict in the Sahel.
At the same time, analysts note that the causes of terrorism in Nigeria are complex. Factors such as governance challenges, economic inequality, corruption, and local grievances also play a significant role. While external influences and geopolitical dynamics are often debated, there is no single agreed explanation for the crisis.
The meeting between Tinubu and Starmer focused on strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom on security, economic development, and climate resilience. Both sides highlighted the need for coordinated regional efforts to address cross border threats and support stability in West Africa.
