President Bola Tinubu has extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days and is now expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend. According to the Presidency, Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London and later travelled to Paris, France, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. The President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the extension of Tinubu's vacation on Monday.
During his vacation, Tinubu has remained in touch with developments at home and continued to direct the affairs of the country. He has issued several directives, including an order for an independent panel to investigate the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. This move demonstrates Tinubu's commitment to addressing pressing issues in Nigeria despite his physical absence.
While Tinubu has been away, Vice President Kashim Shettima has represented him at some official functions. However, Shettima left Abuja on September 20 for New York to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly, whose general debate begins on Tuesday, September 22. Shettima will represent Tinubu at the UN General Assembly and present Nigeria's national statement.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, will also continue to represent the President at official events. According to the Presidency, Akume has been representing Tinubu at various functions, ensuring the smooth operation of the government in the President's absence. This arrangement has allowed the government to maintain its activities without interruption.
On the political front, the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abubakar Yari, has been leading consultations with prominent traditional rulers across the country. This move is seen as part of the President's efforts to engage with key stakeholders and build support for his administration. The consultations are expected to strengthen the President's relationship with traditional leaders.
The Presidency has described as "irresponsible" the "baseless insinuation" by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm headed by an ex-convict over Tinubu's absence from the UN General Assembly. The Presidency has defended Tinubu's decision not to attend the UN General Assembly, citing his prior engagements in Europe. The President's meetings in Paris included discussions with Macron and Bolloré.
Tinubu's meetings in Paris included discussions with Macron and Bolloré, whose business interests include media and entertainment companies. The President is expected back in Nigeria at the weekend after the extended working vacation. Upon his return, Tinubu is expected to resume his duties as President of Nigeria, addressing the nation's challenges and implementing his administration's policies.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu extends his working vacation in Europe and is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend.
- Tinubu has remained in touch with developments at home and continued to direct the affairs of the country while away.
- Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent Tinubu at the UN General Assembly and present Nigeria's national statement.
