Tinubu, Atiku, other world leaders hail Trump’s political comeback, express hope for future cooperation on global challenges
…As Tinubu calls for stronger U.S.-Nigeria relations
…Trump’s victory should inspire Nigeria to uphold electoral integrity – Atiku
…Kamala Harris calls Trump to offer concession, emphasises importance of peaceful transition of power
By Sodiq Adelakun
World leaders, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have swiftly congratulated Donald Trump on his stunning political comeback following his victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
In statements that reflect both admiration for his historic return to the White House and optimism for future international collaboration, leaders across the globe expressed hope for strengthened partnerships to address the pressing global challenges of the 21st century.
From economic cooperation to peacebuilding efforts, the leaders emphasised their readiness to work together with the Trump administration in shaping a more stable and prosperous world.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Trump’s victory as a testament to the confidence and trust the American people have placed in his leadership.
Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria, alongside the U.S., has significant opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and work together to address global challenges that impact their citizens.
“President Tinubu looks forward to strengthening the ties between Nigeria and the United States amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world. Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens,” the statement read.
Tinubu also highlighted Trump’s previous tenure as the 45th President, noting that his return to the White House would offer a unique opportunity for Nigeria and the U.S. to develop a more beneficial and reciprocal partnership, particularly in economic and development sectors.
“The victory of President Trump reflects the trust and confidence the American people have in his leadership. I congratulate them for their commitment to democracy. Given President Trump’s experience, I believe his second term will usher in a new era of robust economic ties between Africa and the United States,” Tinubu said.
Among the first to offer their congratulations was British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described Trump’s victory as “historic” and underscored the importance of the U.S.-UK alliance.
“As the closest of allies, we stand shoulder to shoulder in defense of our shared values of freedom, democracy, and enterprise,” Starmer said.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, stating on social media, “I am ready to work together just as we knew how to do during four years. With your convictions and with mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”
Other European leaders quickly followed suit, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz affirming Berlin’s commitment to working with the Trump administration “for prosperity and freedom.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also congratulated Trump, emphasizing the “unshakeable alliance” between Italy and the U.S. that she hoped would only grow stronger.
In a statement from Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Trump for his “commitment to the peace through strength approach” in global affairs, which, according to Zelensky, could help bring peace to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Trump’s return to power has also drawn mixed reactions from Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed cautious optimism, stating that while Trump had made promises to seek an end to the Ukraine conflict, “only time will tell if those statements translate into action.”
In the Middle East, Israeli leaders celebrated the outcome. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it “history’s greatest comeback,” adding that the victory offers “a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America.” President Isaac Herzog echoed Netanyahu’s praise, calling Trump “a true and dear friend of Israel.”
Other global leaders, including Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, sent warm congratulations, all emphasising the hope for strengthened bilateral relations and regional stability under Trump’s leadership.
In contrast, Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas expressed his belief that the U.S. under Trump would continue to support the “legitimate aspirations” of the Palestinian people, particularly in their pursuit of self-determination and statehood.
From Asia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Trump on his “historic election victory,” and expressed his eagerness to continue the U.S.-India collaboration that began during Trump’s first term. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also looked forward to strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance under Trump’s leadership.
Back in the U.S., Trump declared victory early Wednesday morning, calling his win “the most incredible political victory our country has ever seen.” He praised his supporters, declaring, “America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate.”
Trump also gave a shout-out to tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has been a vocal supporter of the Republican candidate. “We have a new star. A star is born: Elon,” Trump said during his victory speech, while Musk posted on social media, “America is a nation of builders. Soon, you will be free to build.”
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, has equally congratulated Donald Trump on his re-election as the 47th President of the United States, describing his victory as a powerful lesson in resilience and perseverance.
Trump’s defeat of Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election marks a stunning political comeback after his loss to Joe Biden in 2020.
Atiku, reflecting on the significance of Trump’s victory, hailed the democratic process in the U.S. for reaffirming the strength of the people’s voice.
“I closely followed the U.S. presidential election, and it is with immense satisfaction that I now reflect on the result, which heralds a resounding victory for President Donald J. Trump and the Republican Party.
“This triumph will serve as a timeless reminder that democracy, despite its trials, remains a force for good in the world,” Atiku said.
Atiku, who has experienced multiple political setbacks in his career, noted that Trump’s political journey mirrors his own struggles and ultimate comeback, emphasising the value of rising after defeat. He pointed to the U.S. election as a shining example of democratic endurance.
“The narrative of President Trump’s political journey — marked by struggles and eventual triumphs — will serve as an inspiring parable of courage in the face of adversity,” he added. “This is a lesson in the art of rising after every fall and emerging victorious.”
Atiku further expressed his hope that President Trump would use his second term to advocate for credible elections worldwide, including in Nigeria. He stressed the importance of electoral integrity and called for strong action against anti-democratic forces globally.
“I also extend my warm congratulations to the people of the United States, whose unwavering faith in democracy and the sanctity of the ballot has once again shown the world the true power of the people’s voice,” Atiku concluded.
In the same vein, Vice President Kamala Harris has officially conceded defeat to Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, following the former president’s decisive victory.
In a call to Trump on Wednesday, Harris acknowledged the result and discussed “the importance of a peaceful transfer of power” and the need for “being a president for all Americans,” according to a senior adviser.
Harris, who had campaigned as the Democratic candidate for the White House after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race, is scheduled to deliver her concession speech later today at 4 p.m. local time (9 p.m. UK time).
Harris’s call follows a conversation between President Biden and Trump, with the current president congratulating his predecessor on his win and inviting him to the White House for a transition meeting.
Trump, having secured the 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the presidency, declared victory earlier in the day at his campaign headquarters in Palm Beach, Florida.
In his victory speech, Trump promised to “help our country heal” and outlined plans to address key issues such as immigration, national security, and economic growth.
“This is a magnificent victory for the American people,” Trump said to a jubilant crowd. “We are going to fix everything about our country, and we’ve made history for a reason tonight.”
The victory marked a sweeping success not only for Trump but also for the Republican Party, which regained control of the Senate from the Democrats. Trump’s victory was sealed after securing key battleground states, including North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
In his speech, Trump emphasised his commitment to “make America great again” and hinted at a new era for the nation. “America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate,” he declared. “We have taken back control of the Senate. Wow. That’s great.”
