President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has dismissed speculation about his health, declaring himself healthy and ready to resume official duties. Tinubu returned to Nigeria on September 29 after a month-long working vacation in Europe. He made the remarks at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, where he was received by senior government officials. Tinubu's statement comes amid concerns over his prolonged stay abroad.
Tinubu's vacation was initially announced as a three-week working vacation, but it stretched to about one month. He spent a week in London before traveling to Paris, France, where he remained until his departure for Nigeria. The Presidency had announced an extension of his vacation by a few days. Tinubu's return to Nigeria coincides with the country's 66th Independence anniversary celebrations.
The President will serve as the Chief Host of the national premiere of MKO, a documentary about the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and the June 12, 1993 presidential election. The documentary, directed by Nigerian-American filmmaker Ose Oyamendan, chronicles Abiola's political journey and the annulled election. Tinubu chose to return to Lagos partly to honor Abiola, whose presumed victory was annulled by the military government.
The documentary features archival materials and first-hand accounts from key actors and witnesses, including former military President Ibrahim Babangida and former President Olusegun Obasanjo. It also includes interviews with foreign diplomats and Abiola's family members. The film had its international premiere at the Sheffield International Documentary Festival and will be released in Nigerian cinemas on October 2.
During his vacation, Tinubu attended a private dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron and met with businessman Vincent Bolloré and other business leaders. He also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ogun State Government and DP World for a proposed deep seaport and blue marine economic zone.
Tinubu's arrival in Lagos ahead of the Independence anniversary celebrations and the documentary premiere has sparked interest in his plans for the country. The President is expected to undertake engagements in Lagos before returning to Abuja. His Special Assistant on Social Media announced his arrival with a video of the President's reception on social media.
The documentary's release and Tinubu's involvement in its premiere highlight the country's continued reflection on its past and its democratic journey. The President's declaration of fitness for work and his return to official duties will likely alleviate concerns about his health and ability to lead the country.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu dismisses health concerns, declaring himself fit for work upon returning to Nigeria from a month-long vacation in Europe.
