By Charles Maduka
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria today after spending nearly two weeks abroad. His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development in a brief statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will return home today,” he announced.
Last week, the Presidency assured Nigerians that the President remained fully engaged with the affairs of the state despite being out of the country. Onanuga disclosed that President Tinubu had moved from Paris to London over the weekend and had continued to carry out his official duties, including issuing directives to security agencies regarding the recent security challenges across the country.
The Presidency also noted that the trip was a pre-scheduled working visit aimed at reviewing the performance of the administration. It stated that the President was expected to return on April 21, following the Easter holiday.
“The President remains committed to the responsibilities of his office, and government operations have continued without disruption,” the statement read. “We appreciate the concerns expressed by Nigerians and assure the public that governance has remained on course.”
President Tinubu departed Nigeria for Paris on April 2 for a working visit. However, his extended stay drew criticism from opposition figures who cited rising insecurity in parts of the country, particularly in Plateau, Benue, Zamfara, and Borno states.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi both criticized the President’s absence during what they described as a critical period for the nation.
Atiku, through his media aide, described Tinubu’s prolonged absence as “irresponsible,” arguing that the country needed leadership presence during times of crisis. “While President Tinubu is away, Nigerians are being killed daily. Leadership demands both presence and action,” he stated.
Peter Obi also urged the President to return immediately, pointing out that over 150 Nigerians had lost their lives within the two-week period.
In response to the criticisms, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended the President. The party’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, maintained that there was no leadership vacuum, noting that both the President and Vice President remained actively involved in governance.
“Being out of the country does not mean the President is not in control. He has been giving necessary directives and is in constant communication with officials. The Vice President is also effectively handling state matters in his absence,” he said.
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