Tinubu Hale and Hearty, Returning to Nigeria This Week — Onanuga
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is “hale and hearty” and has continued to discharge his responsibilities while on a working vacation outside Nigeria.
Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, made the statement in a post on X on Sunday, September 27, amid renewed public discussion over Tinubu’s prolonged absence from Nigeria.
According to Onanuga, the President is entitled to his annual vacation and does not need to be physically present in Abuja to perform his duties in an era of digital communication.
He also pointed to Tinubu’s engagements with investors in France, including the President’s participation in discussions surrounding the planned Gateway Deep Sea Port and the Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone.
The Ogun State Government and DP World signed agreements in Paris on September 24 covering the two projects, with the State House describing the agreements as involving more than $7 billion in investment.
Onanuga Defends Tinubu’s Absence From UNGA
Onanuga also addressed questions over why Tinubu did not personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The President instead delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the UNGA, where Shettima represented Tinubu and delivered Nigeria’s national statement.
Onanuga compared Tinubu’s absence with that of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who also did not attend the UNGA in New York.
He further criticised former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over questions concerning Tinubu’s whereabouts.
The comments came amid political debate over the President’s extended stay abroad and the circumstances surrounding his absence from Nigeria.
Tinubu Expected Back in Nigeria
Onanuga said Tinubu would return to Nigeria this week to participate in activities marking the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Reports indicate that the President is expected to arrive in Lagos on Tuesday, September 29, before participating in Independence Day activities on October 1.
Tinubu is also expected to attend the national premiere of MKO, a documentary about the life and political struggle of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
The documentary is scheduled to premiere at the National Theatre in Lagos on October 1, with Tinubu listed as the chief host.
The President’s return would bring an end to his extended stay in Europe, which began on August 30 when he travelled to London for his annual vacation before proceeding to Paris.
The Presidency has described the trip as a working vacation, saying Tinubu remained in contact with officials and continued to handle government affairs while abroad.
Source: State House / Bayo Onanuga