President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after spending about four weeks in Europe, and has declared that he is healthy, sound, and ready to resume work. Tinubu arrived in Lagos on Tuesday evening, and was received at the airport by top government officials, political leaders, and other dignitaries. The President's return comes after speculation about his health, which he described as politically motivated.
Tinubu's prolonged stay abroad had generated public and political debate, particularly over his decision not to personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The President dismissed concerns about his health, saying his physical return to the country had put to rest rumours about his condition. He also said he enjoyed his time away from Nigeria, describing it as a working vacation.
During his stay in Europe, Tinubu had a number of official and investment-related engagements. He met French President Emmanuel Macron and French businessman, Vincent Bolloré, and discussed investment opportunities in Nigeria. The President's administration also linked the European engagements to efforts to attract capital into major projects in Nigeria, including the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port in Ogun State.
Tinubu's return comes at a time when his administration is expected to intensify activities on the domestic front as the country approaches its 66th Independence Anniversary. The President is expected to remain in Lagos for the Independence Anniversary celebrations on October 1, with official engagements scheduled in the state before his return to Abuja.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, welcomed Tinubu back to Nigeria, saying his period of rest should translate into renewed energy and greater action in the administration. Abbas expressed optimism that Tinubu will come with renewed vigour and hope to continue serving the good people of Nigeria.
Tinubu's European engagements were described by the Presidency as a working vacation, during which he remained engaged with affairs of state and continued to direct the administration. Vice President Kashim Shettima led the Nigerian delegation to the UN General Assembly, where he represented Tinubu at several high-level engagements.
The President's return marks the end of his extended European stay and the resumption of his direct physical presence in the country as the administration moves into the final quarter of the year. With his health and readiness to work confirmed, Tinubu is set to focus on the 2027 general elections and other pressing national issues.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu returns to Nigeria after four-week European stay, declares he is healthy and ready to resume work.
