The Presidency has moved to alleviate concerns about President Bola Tinubu's health and availability, stating that he is "hale and hearty." According to a statement released by his Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on September 27, 2026, 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 enable the President to carry out his responsibilities without being physically present in Abuja. It cited Tinubu's reported meetings with investors in France as evidence of his continued work while away from Nigeria. Furthermore, the proposed $7 billion deep-sea port project in Ogun Waterside was mentioned as an initiative of the Ogun State Government that Tinubu had recently helped facilitate.
In response to criticism over Tinubu's absence from the United Nations General Assembly, the Presidency noted that other African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, were also not present in New York. The statement pointed out that Tinubu had announced his annual vacation and delegated Nigeria's representation to Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The Presidency also criticized former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for questioning Tinubu's whereabouts. The statement said, "Yet Peter Obi pretends to be unaware of President Tinubu's whereabouts." This response indicates a growing tension between the Presidency and opposition figures regarding Tinubu's activities.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria this week ahead of the country's 66th Independence Anniversary. His return is highly anticipated, as he is set to honour the memory of the late businessman and democracy campaigner, MKO Abiola, by attending the premiere of a movie about his life in Lagos.
The statement from the Presidency aims to reassure Nigerians that Tinubu's temporary absence does not affect his ability to lead the country. By citing examples of his continued engagement in official duties, the Presidency seeks to dispel concerns about his health and availability.
As Tinubu prepares to return to Nigeria, the nation watches closely, eager to see the President's next steps. With his attendance at the movie premiere and the Independence Anniversary celebrations, Tinubu is expected to demonstrate his continued commitment to his duties as President.
Key points
- President Tinubu is currently on annual vacation but remains engaged with official duties.
- The Presidency cited advances in technology as a reason for Tinubu's ability to work remotely.
- Tinubu's absence from the UN General Assembly was also noted among other African leaders.
