President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his working vacation by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria this weekend. According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President will return to the country after spending more time abroad. Tinubu had departed Nigeria on August 30 for London to begin a three-week working vacation.
During his vacation, President Tinubu has been keeping in touch with home, directing the affairs of the nation. He has been active in governance, ordering an independent panel to investigate the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna, who were detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. This demonstrates the President's commitment to governance despite his physical absence.
President Tinubu's vacation has taken him 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. The meetings suggest that the President is engaging in diplomatic and business activities during his vacation.
In his absence, President Tinubu has delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at official functions. However, Shettima left Abuja on September 20 for New York to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly. In his place, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, will continue to represent the President at events.
The Presidency has also been active on the political front, with the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abubakar Yari, leading consultations with prominent traditional rulers. This suggests that the government is continuing to engage with various stakeholders despite the President's vacation.
However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns about the governance of the country during the President's vacation. He has asked the Presidency to clarify who is in charge of the country, given that both the President and Vice President are abroad. Atiku expressed concern over security challenges and rising fuel prices, emphasizing the need for clear governance.
Atiku's concerns highlight the importance of transparency and clear communication in governance. As the President and Vice President engage in international activities, the country requires assurance that governance structures are in place to address pressing issues. The Presidency must provide clarity on who is exercising the President's powers in his absence to alleviate concerns about the country's leadership.
Key points
- President Tinubu extends working vacation, expected to return to Nigeria this weekend.
- Tinubu has been active in governance despite his physical absence, directing the affairs of the nation.
- Atiku Abubakar raises concerns about governance and leadership in the President's absence.
