RismadarVoice Reporters
September 28, 2026
The Presidency has moved to address concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s continued stay in Europe after his previously announced return period passed, assuring Nigerians that the President remains engaged in official duties and is expected back in the country this week.
Tinubu left Abuja on August 30 for what the Presidency initially described as a three-week working vacation, beginning in London before travelling to Paris, France.
The Presidency subsequently announced an extension of the vacation by a few days and said the President would return to Nigeria at the weekend.
However, Tinubu did not return as previously indicated, prompting questions about his revised schedule.
Responding to the concerns, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu was “hale and hearty” and remained actively involved in the affairs of government while abroad.
According to Onanuga, advances in communication technology allow the President to continue performing his responsibilities without being physically present in Abuja.
The presidential aide said Tinubu had continued to engage with developments at home and hold meetings related to Nigeria’s economic and investment interests during his stay in France.
The President is now expected to return to Nigeria this week, with reports indicating that his arrival is likely on Tuesday, September 29.
Tinubu is expected to arrive in Lagos ahead of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1.
The President is also expected to attend the premiere of a documentary commemorating the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and the June 12 democratic struggle.
The documentary, titled “MKO,” is scheduled to premiere at the National Theatre in Lagos on Independence Day, with Tinubu listed as chief host.
The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu’s absence has not prevented him from directing government affairs.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented the President at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York and has since returned to Nigeria.
Tinubu’s extended stay abroad has attracted criticism from some opposition figures, who have raised questions about the length of his absence and the constitutional arrangements governing the exercise of presidential responsibilities during his vacation.
The Presidency has rejected concerns about the President’s ability to perform his duties while abroad and maintains that he has remained in contact with officials and continued to issue directives on national matters.
Attention will now turn to Tinubu’s expected return and his engagements surrounding Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary.
