Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his working vacation by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend. This was announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement posted on X on Monday. Tinubu had left Nigeria on August 30 for London to begin his working vacation.
During his stay in London, Tinubu travelled to Paris, France, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bollore. Bollore's media group includes Canal+, Multichoice, and Universal Music Group. Despite his absence from Nigeria, Tinubu continued to keep in touch with developments at home and direct the affairs of the nation.
Tinubu ordered an independent panel to investigate the deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. This was among other matters he handled while away. The President also delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at some official functions during his absence.
Shettima left Abuja on September 20 for New York to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, would continue representing the President at official events. Shettima will present Nigeria's national statement at the global conference.
On the political front, the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abubakar Yari, has been leading other notable party leaders in consultations with prominent traditional rulers across the country. The Presidency described the insinuation by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm over Tinubu's non-attendance at the United Nations General Assembly as irresponsible.
The Presidency emphasized that Tinubu has been actively engaged with the country's affairs despite his physical absence. The President's vacation extension and subsequent return to Nigeria are expected to have minimal impact on the country's governance. Tinubu's administration has been focused on addressing various challenges facing the nation.
The President's trip to Paris and meetings with world leaders demonstrate Nigeria's continued engagement with the international community. Tinubu's return to Nigeria is anticipated to bring new insights and perspectives to address the country's pressing issues. The government has urged the public to disregard misinformation about Tinubu's absence from the United Nations General Assembly.
Key points
- President Tinubu extended his working vacation and is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend.
- Tinubu met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bollore during his stay in Paris.
- Vice President Shettima will represent Tinubu at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
