The Convener of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG), Bamidele Atoyebi, has called on Nigerian politicians to adopt patience, strategic thinking and mentorship as guiding principles of leadership, pointing to the political trajectory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a model.

Atoyebi said Tinubu’s rise to the presidency reflects a deliberate and calculated approach built on timing, long-term planning and measured decision-making, rather than haste or opportunism.

He noted that such attributes are often lacking among many political actors, particularly as Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle.

According to him, Tinubu’s political philosophy is anchored on the belief that leadership positions should be pursued only when conditions are favourable.

He described this mindset as essential for sustainable political success, citing the President’s history of stepping aside at critical moments and supporting other leaders, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, before eventually contesting and winning the presidency.

“Patience is not passive but a form of concentrated strength,” Atoyebi said, referencing the philosophy of martial artist Bruce Lee, which he noted aligns with Tinubu’s political style.

He traced Tinubu’s early political development to his association with late business mogul and politician Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, describing the period as formative and defined by mentorship and observation.

He added that Tinubu’s long-term influence was further strengthened through alliance-building and the strategic positioning of loyalists over time.

Atoyebi criticised what he described as a prevailing culture among politicians who equate visibility with leadership, arguing that occupying the spotlight does not necessarily translate to effective governance or enduring impact.

He said many leaders falter due to impatience, poor timing and the prioritisation of personal ambition over public service.

To underscore his argument, Atoyebi cited the career of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, whom he described as an example of political patience, having remained within the system despite missed opportunities before rising to prominence.

He contrasted this with politicians who frequently defect between parties in pursuit of immediate gains, warning that such decisions often undermine long-term prospects.

The analyst also referenced political developments in Oyo State, pointing to Senator Teslim Folarin as an example of how contesting against an incumbent at an unfavourable time can weaken future opportunities, regardless of available resources.

Atoyebi further warned of what he termed a “political virus” spreading among aspirants ahead of elections, characterised by desperation, weak ideological grounding and a focus on personal enrichment rather than service delivery.

He stressed that effective leadership requires calculated decision-making, mentorship and a willingness to serve in subordinate roles before attaining higher office, adding that politicians who ignore these principles often leave office without lasting legacies.

Atoyebi concluded that patience remains the “lifeblood of politics,” noting that Tinubu’s career provides a practical blueprint for aspiring leaders seeking to build enduring influence and deliver meaningful value to citizens.