President Bola Tinubu is set to arrive in Nigeria today following a nearly two-week working visit abroad. His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the return in a statement on Monday, saying: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will return home today.”
The president had departed Nigeria for Paris on April 2 for what the Presidency described as a mid-term performance review of his administration. He later traveled to London, maintaining regular communication with government officials throughout his trip. Onanuga emphasized that Tinubu remained fully engaged in governance despite being overseas, stating: “The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership.”
The extended visit had drawn criticism from opposition leaders amid rising security concerns across the country. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called Tinubu’s absence “irresponsible” given the worsening violence, while Labour Party’s Peter Obi urged immediate return, citing over 150 security-related deaths during the president’s trip. The ruling All Progressives Congress dismissed the criticisms, maintaining the importance of the working visit.
Tinubu’s return comes as Nigeria faces heightened security challenges in several states, with recent attacks reported in Plateau, Benue, Zamfara and Borno. The Presidency has assured Nigerians of the government’s continued focus on addressing these issues.