President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has concluded his working vacation in Europe and is now en route to Nigeria, marking the end of an extended stay abroad. After spending at least 30 days away from the country, the Nigerian leader departed from Paris, France, with his aircraft anticipated to land at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos later this evening.
President Tinubu initially left Abuja on August 30 for what was described as his annual leave, with an expected return within 21 days. However, his homecoming schedule was reportedly adjusted on at least two occasions, prolonging his absence beyond the initial timeframe.
This extended period away from national duties drew significant criticism from various opposition parties across Nigeria. These groups raised concerns regarding the President’s whereabouts and his health status, publicly demanding clarification from the presidency.
Confirming the President’s homeward journey, his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, issued a statement on Tuesday. Onanuga specified that President Tinubu had officially departed Paris, France, and was on his way back to Nigeria.
According to Onanuga, the President’s decision to first land in Lagos is a deliberate move to “honour the memory of Chief MKO Abiola, the martyr of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.” This gesture pays tribute to the iconic figure synonymous with Nigeria’s struggle for democracy.