The Presidency of Nigeria has addressed concerns over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's extended absence from the country, stating that he is "hale and hearty" and actively engaged in official responsibilities despite being on a working vacation in Europe. According to Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu's physical absence from Abuja does not hinder his ability to direct government affairs, thanks to modern communication technology.
Onanuga's statement comes amid renewed public debate over Tinubu's absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, with opposition politician Peter Obi questioning the President's whereabouts and decision to remain outside the country. Onanuga emphasized that Tinubu is entitled to his annual vacation and has continued to work while abroad, utilizing digital tools to stay connected with government developments.
Tinubu embarked on his working vacation on August 30, initially traveling to London and subsequently to Paris, where he held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. During his trip, Tinubu was involved in significant economic engagements, including the signing of agreements between the Ogun State Government and global ports operator, DP World, for the development of the Gateway Deep Seaport and the Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone.
The projects, expected to attract an initial investment of over $7 billion and generate more than 50,000 direct jobs, were highlighted by the Presidency as a key achievement of Tinubu's working vacation. The proposed deep seaport at Ogun Waterside is planned with a four-kilometre berth and an 18-metre draft, providing an alternative gateway to the congested Lagos port corridor.
Onanuga argued that Tinubu's presence in Europe provided an opportunity to advance investment and economic diplomacy, rather than interrupting governance. He also pointed out that other African presidents did not personally attend the high-level UNGA meetings, with some countries being represented by their prime ministers or vice presidents.
The Presidency had formally announced that Tinubu would extend his working vacation and that Vice President Kashim Shettima would represent him at the 81st UN General Assembly. Shettima traveled to New York on September 20 to lead Nigeria's delegation and delivered the country's national statement during the high-level segment of the General Debate.
Onanuga also responded to criticism from Peter Obi, describing the former Anambra State governor's intervention as unnecessary and accusing him of disregarding information already provided by the Presidency about Tinubu's location and official engagements. The Presidency confirmed that Tinubu would return to Nigeria to participate in activities marking the country's 66th Independence Anniversary and attend the premiere of a documentary about the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
Key points
- The Presidency defends President Tinubu's working vacation in Europe, citing his continued engagement in official responsibilities and significant economic engagements.
- Tinubu's absence from the UNGA was addressed by the Presidency, which pointed out that other African presidents also did not personally attend the high-level meetings.
- The President is expected to return to Nigeria for the country's 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations and a documentary premiere.
