President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after about four weeks in Europe, declaring that he is healthy and ready to resume his official duties.
Tinubu arrived in Lagos on Tuesday evening from Paris, France, where he spent the final part of what the Presidency described as a working vacation. His aircraft landed at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport at about 6:22 p.m.
Speaking to journalists after his arrival, the President responded to questions about concerns surrounding his health during his prolonged stay abroad.
Tinubu dismissed the concerns, saying he remained fit and prepared to continue working.
“Rumours will always be emanating from politics. I am hale and strong. I am ready to work. The fact remains that I am here, healthy, sound and ready to go,” he said.
The President left Nigeria on August 30 for London before travelling to Paris a week later. The Presidency subsequently extended his stay by a few days, saying he remained in contact with officials at home and continued to direct government affairs while abroad.
His extended absence attracted public and political debate, particularly after he did not attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Nigeria at the gathering and delivered the country’s national statement on behalf of the President. The Presidency said Shettima was acting with Tinubu’s mandate.
While in France, Tinubu held a private dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron and met businessman Vincent Bolloré. He also witnessed the signing of an agreement involving the Ogun State Government and DP World concerning the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and Blue Marine Economic Zone, a project the Presidency said could attract $7 billion in investment.
The Presidency had also defended the President’s continued stay in Europe, maintaining that the trip combined personal leave with official engagements and that Tinubu remained involved in government business.
Tinubu’s return comes ahead of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1. He is expected to participate in activities marking the anniversary in Lagos, including an event honouring the late MKO Abiola, before subsequently returning to Abuja.
