President Bola Tinubu has returned to Lagos after a working vacation in Europe, dismissing concerns over his health. On Tuesday evening, he arrived at the presidential wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where he was received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other dignitaries. Tinubu stated that he was "healthy and sound," ready to resume work after spending several weeks outside Nigeria.
Tinubu's return comes amid speculation over his health, sparked by claims from Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress. Sowore alleged that the President was hospitalized in France, although he did not know the nature of the alleged ailment. The Presidency had previously dismissed these concerns, with Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga describing Tinubu as "hale and hearty."
During his European working vacation, Tinubu engaged in official activities, including discussions on the proposed $7 billion deep-sea port project in Ogun Waterside. The project, an initiative of the Ogun State Government, aims to attract substantial investment. Tinubu's engagements in France were cited as evidence of his continued official work during the period.
Tinubu's decision to return to Lagos was linked to plans to honor the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, who won the June 12, 1993 presidential election. The President is expected to participate in activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, including the premiere of a movie celebrating Abiola's life and legacy at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos.
While in Lagos, Tinubu will hold strategic meetings with political leaders and associates over several days in preparation for the 2027 general elections. According to Onanuga, these meetings are part of the President's efforts to engage with key stakeholders ahead of the elections. The President's Lagos engagements will combine political meetings with activities linked to the Independence Day celebrations.
Tinubu's return to Lagos was preceded by heightened security arrangements in parts of the city. Reports of roadblocks and traffic disruptions emerged as security personnel prepared for the President's movement within the city. A lawyer and activist, Inibehe Effiong, raised concerns about the security arrangements, citing an unusual roadblock he encountered while traveling to catch a flight in Abuja.
The President is expected to remain in Lagos for the engagements before returning to Abuja. His return brought an end to his European working vacation, which began with his departure from Abuja on August 30. Tinubu initially spent about a week in London before proceeding to Paris, where he continued his official engagements.
Key points
- President Tinubu assures of his good health and readiness to work after returning to Lagos from a European working vacation.
- The President's return comes amid speculation over his health, sparked by claims from Omoyele Sowore.
- Tinubu is expected to participate in activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary and hold strategic meetings with political leaders in Lagos.
