Tinubu extends Europe vacation, returns to Nigeria this weekend

President Bola Tinubu has extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria this weekend, the Presidency said. Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30, first to London then to Paris, where he met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. While abroad, he continued to monitor developments in Nigeria and directed government affairs, and ordered an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Vice‑President Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu at several official engagements, travelled to New York on September 20 to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly, and will deliver Nigeria’s national statement. The Presidency also said Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume would continue to represent the President at official events, and rejected what it called an "irresponsible" and baseless insinuation by former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar and a United States‑based lobbying firm led by an ex‑convict regarding Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA.

The situation matters because it shows how governance continues during the President’s absence, with key deputies handling diplomatic and domestic duties, while the ordered investigation signals attention to rising concerns over illegal mining and security force conduct. Tinubu’s participation, through Shettima, at the UNGA underscores Nigeria’s role in global discussions, and the Presidency’s rebuttal of opposition claims aims to counter political narratives that question his commitment to national duties.

Citizens should note that while Tinubu is away, Vice‑President Shettima and SGF Akume are managing official responsibilities; the investigation into the Minna miners’ deaths may lead to accountability; and they can watch Shettima’s UNGA statement for Nigeria’s position on international issues. How do you assess the balance between a leader’s need for rest and the perception of dedication to duty when such trips are extended?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/21/tinubu-extends-europe-vacation-returns-to-nigeria-this-weekend/