Tinubu Returns to Nigeria After Extended Working Vacation
Tinubu Returns to Nigeria After Extended Working Vacation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Paris, France, for Nigeria after concluding his extended working vacation, with his aircraft expected to arrive at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos later on Tuesday.
The Presidency confirmed the development in a statement issued on September 29, saying Tinubu had concluded his stay in France and commenced his journey back to Nigeria. The President is expected to begin his post-vacation engagements in Lagos before returning to Abuja.
Tinubu’s return comes after a month-long period in Europe that began with his departure from Nigeria for London on August 30. He subsequently travelled to Paris, where he held engagements with French President Emmanuel Macron and other international business interests.
One of the major developments during his stay in Paris was the signing of agreements involving the Ogun State Government and DP World concerning the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone. The projects have been presented as potential drivers of investment, maritime trade and employment.
The President’s return also comes ahead of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1. Tinubu is expected to participate in activities in Lagos, including the delivery of his Independence Day national broadcast.
During his absence, Vice President Kashim Shettima represented the President at several official engagements, including Nigeria’s participation at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, also represented the President at selected functions after Shettima travelled to the United States.
Tinubu’s prolonged stay abroad had generated public and political debate, particularly over the duration of his absence and the constitutional provisions relating to presidential vacation and the delegation of presidential functions. The Presidency maintained that Tinubu remained engaged with affairs of government throughout the period.
With the President now returning to Nigeria, attention is expected to shift to his Independence Day engagements, pending presidential decisions and the resumption of his full schedule from the country. His return also comes as political parties and political actors intensify preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
