President Bola Tinubu has extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria this weekend. According to the Presidency, Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for London and later travelled to Paris, France, where he held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. The President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the extension of Tinubu's vacation.
During his absence, Vice-President Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu at several official engagements. Shettima travelled to New York on September 20 to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where the general debate is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, September 22. The Presidency said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, would continue to represent Tinubu at official events.
Tinubu had continued to monitor developments in Nigeria and direct government affairs while away. He also ordered an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. This move demonstrates the President's commitment to addressing critical issues in the country despite his physical absence.
The Presidency rejected what it described as an "irresponsible" and baseless insinuation by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm led by an ex-convict over Tinubu's absence from the UN General Assembly. The Presidency's swift response aims to quell speculation and maintain public trust in the government's activities.
Senator Abubakar Yari, the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, had been holding consultations with prominent traditional rulers across the country. This development suggests that the President's engagements have continued even during his vacation, with key stakeholders working to advance the government's agenda.
During his stay in Paris, Tinubu met Macron and Bolloré, whose business interests include media and entertainment. The meetings may have focused on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring potential areas of cooperation between Nigeria and France. The details of these discussions have not been made public.
The President is expected to return to Nigeria this weekend after the extended working vacation. Upon his return, Tinubu is likely to resume his duties and address pressing issues in the country. Key priorities may include the economy, security, and infrastructure development.
Key points
- President Tinubu extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria this weekend.
- The President ordered an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna.
- Vice-President Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu at several official engagements during his absence.
