President Bola Tinubu returned to Nigeria on September 29 after a four-week European vacation, dismissing concerns about his health and vowing to 'kick' into action upon his return. The President arrived at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos aboard Nigerian Air Force One, stating he was 'healthy, sound, and ready to go' following his trip. His return concluded a stay that initially was scheduled as a three-week annual vacation but extended to four weeks, drawing political scrutiny and public debate over his absence from key national duties.
Tinubu’s European trip began on August 30, with the President initially traveling to London before relocating to Paris for official engagements. In France, he met with President Emmanuel Macron, business leaders including Vincent Bolloré of the Bolloré Group and Femi Otedola of First HoldCo Plc, and witnessed the signing of a $7 billion investment agreement for a deep-sea port and marine economic zone in Ogun State. The Presidency later extended his stay, citing a 'working vacation,' and announced his return on September 29, prompting criticism from opposition figures who questioned the constitutional implications of his prolonged absence from Abuja.
The President’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered Nigeria’s national statement, intensified political tensions. African Democratic Congress candidate Atiku Abubakar raised concerns about Section 145 of the Constitution, which outlines presidential succession, while the Presidency defended Tinubu’s actions, stating he remained engaged with governance through digital means. Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga emphasized that the President’s 'hale and hearty' status and ability to direct government affairs remotely justified the extended trip, despite opposition claims of neglecting national responsibilities.
Tinubu’s return coincides with preparations for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day celebrations, including a film premiere honoring late political figure MKO Abiola. The President is also set to hold strategic meetings in Lagos before returning to Abuja. His vacation, which included private dinners and business engagements, has sparked broader discussions about the balance between presidential travel and domestic governance, with critics arguing it risks undermining public trust in leadership during a period of economic and political challenges.