Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who has been on a working vacation since August 30, is expected to return to the country this week. According to his spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu is "hale and hearty" and will participate in activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary. The President's return is eagerly anticipated, with various events scheduled, including the Lagos premiere of a film commemorating late democracy activist, Chief MKO Abiola.
During his vacation, Tinubu undertook official engagements, including meetings with investors in France, where agreements were signed for a proposed $7 billion deep-sea port in Ogun Waterside. Onanuga emphasized that the President did not need to be physically present in Abuja to carry out his duties, citing the digital age and the ability to work remotely. He also pointed out that Tinubu had delegated Nigeria's representation at the United Nations General Assembly to Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
The presidential spokesperson criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), for questioning Tinubu's whereabouts. Onanuga argued that the President's vacation and official engagements had been publicly communicated by the Presidency, and therefore, there was no need for speculation. He also drew comparisons with other world leaders, citing the absence of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi from the UNGA, which had not generated similar public debate.
Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London, where he began a three-week working vacation. After spending about a week in the United Kingdom, he traveled to Paris for official engagements. On September 21, the Presidency announced that Tinubu had extended his stay abroad by a few days. This extension allowed him to continue his official engagements, including the meetings with investors in France.
The President's participation in Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations is highly anticipated. His presence is expected to add significance to the events, which will take place in Lagos. Additionally, Tinubu will attend the Lagos premiere of a film commemorating Chief MKO Abiola, a prominent democracy activist. This event is part of the celebrations marking Nigeria's independence.
Onanuga reiterated that Tinubu's working vacation was a necessary break, allowing him to attend to official engagements and also take some time off. He emphasized that the President's health and well-being were not a cause for concern, as confirmed by his medical reports. The spokesperson expressed confidence that Tinubu would resume his duties upon his return to Nigeria.
The federal government has been active in various sectors, including the reform of free zones. The government aims to tighten the regulatory framework governing Nigeria's special economic zones (SEZs), while assuring legitimate investors that their interests will be protected. This move is part of the government's efforts to promote economic growth and development in the country.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu is set to return to Nigeria this week after a working vacation.
- Tinubu undertook official engagements during his vacation, including meetings with investors in France.
- The President will participate in activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary.
