The Presidency has announced that President Bola Tinubu's three-week working leave has been extended by one week. According to Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu will return to Nigeria at the weekend. Tinubu had departed Nigeria on August 30 for London to begin his working vacation. He later moved to Paris, France, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bollore.
During his vacation, Tinubu has continued to direct the affairs of the nation. He recently ordered an independent panel to investigate the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna, who were detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. The President has also been keeping in touch with home, ensuring that governance continues uninterrupted. Vice President Kashim Shettima was delegated to represent Tinubu at some official functions.
Shettima left Abuja on October 20 for New York to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly. In his absence, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has been representing the President at events. Akume will continue to do so, alongside Shettima, who will present Nigeria's national statement at the UNGA. The President's delegation aims to ensure a smooth representation of Nigeria's interests.
The Presidency has reacted to insinuations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a US-based lobbying firm about Tinubu's non-attendance at UNGA. The Presidency described these claims as baseless and irresponsible. Atiku had questioned Tinubu's absence at the UNGA, sparking a reaction from the Presidency.
On the political front, Senator Abubakar Yari, Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, has been leading consultations with prominent traditional rulers in the country. The move aims to foster greater collaboration between the government and traditional institutions. Yari's efforts have been focused on engaging with key stakeholders.
Tinubu's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bollore in Paris was a significant highlight of his working vacation. The discussions likely centered on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring potential areas of cooperation between Nigeria and France. The meeting demonstrated Tinubu's commitment to international diplomacy.
The extension of Tinubu's working vacation by one week suggests that the President is taking a measured approach to his duties. By delegating responsibilities to Shettima and Akume, Tinubu has ensured that governance continues without interruption. The President's return to Nigeria is expected to bring a renewed focus to his duties.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu extends working vacation by one week
- VP Shettima and SGF Akume represent Tinubu at official functions
- Presidency describes Atiku's insinuation about Tinubu's UNGA absence as baseless and irresponsible
