President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after spending 19 days on a private trip to France and the United Kingdom. He arrived at the presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport in Abuja on Monday evening, where he was welcomed by top government officials.
Those present at the airport to receive him included Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, among other cabinet members.
The president had departed Nigeria on April 2 for what was initially described as a two-week “working visit” to Paris. During the trip, his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, stated that Tinubu would use the time to review the progress of his administration. However, his absence extended to 19 days and lacked official updates, prompting widespread speculation and criticism.
According to a 9am News report, the president’s silence during his trip added fuel to growing concerns over the country’s security situation.
While Tinubu was abroad, Nigeria experienced a surge in violent attacks across multiple states, including Plateau, Benue, and Borno. Incidents of killings and abductions dominated headlines, with many Nigerians demanding stronger leadership during the crisis.
Opposition leaders Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi expressed their dissatisfaction with the president’s extended stay overseas. In separate statements, they criticized his absence, noting that “Nigeria bleeds while he remains abroad.”
Observers have also questioned the opacity surrounding the president’s itinerary and the lack of clear communication from the presidency during his time away.
With his return, political watchers will be keen to see whether President Tinubu addresses the concerns raised during his absence. Many expect him to outline concrete steps to curb the escalating violence and reinforce his administration’s commitment to national security.
As the nation watches closely, all eyes are on Aso Rock to see how the president intends to re-establish confidence in his leadership amid growing public scrutiny.
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