The Presidency of Nigeria has addressed concerns over President Bola Tinubu's recent absence from Abuja and the 2026 United Nations General Assembly in New York, assuring citizens that he is "hale and hearty". According to a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu is currently on his annual vacation but remains engaged with official duties and activities. The statement emphasized that the President is "perfectly entitled" to take a working vacation.
The Presidency highlighted that advances in technology have made it possible for Tinubu to carry out his official responsibilities without being physically present in Abuja. This allows him to manage the country's affairs from any location. The statement also mentioned that Tinubu had recent meetings with investors in France, demonstrating his continued engagement in official activities while away from Nigeria.
One of the initiatives Tinubu has been involved in is the proposed $7bn deep-sea port project in Ogun Waterside. The project is an initiative of the Ogun State Government, and Tinubu has played a role in facilitating it. This project aims to boost Nigeria's maritime and economic development.
The Presidency also addressed criticism over Tinubu's absence from the United Nations General Assembly in New York. They pointed out that other African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, were also not present at the gathering. This was used to illustrate that Tinubu's absence was not unusual.
Tinubu had announced his annual vacation and delegated Nigeria's representation at the UNGA to Vice President Kashim Shettima. The Presidency criticized former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for questioning Tinubu's whereabouts. They accused Obi of pretending to be unaware of President Tinubu's vacation plans.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria during the week ahead of the country's 66th Independence Anniversary. Upon his return, he is expected to attend the premiere of a movie about the late businessman and democracy campaigner, MKO Abiola, in Lagos. This event is part of activities to honor Abiola's memory.
The Presidency's statement aimed to alleviate concerns about Tinubu's health and whereabouts, emphasizing that he is actively engaged in official duties despite his physical absence from Abuja. The assurance is likely to help stabilize public perception of the President's leadership.
Key points
- President Tinubu is on a working vacation and remains engaged in official duties.
- The Presidency cited advances in technology as enabling Tinubu to work remotely.
- Tinubu's absence from UNGA was not unusual, with other African leaders also not in attendance.