President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria following a two-week working trip to France and the United Kingdom, during which he conducted a midterm performance review and engaged in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary.
The President touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 9:55 p.m. and was received by a delegation of senior government officials.
Those at the airport to welcome him included:
- Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory
- Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation
- Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser
- Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning
Before his arrival, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, had announced that Tinubu would return on Monday, confirming the end of his European retreat.
President Tinubu left Nigeria on April 2 for what the presidency described as a “short working visit” to Paris. According to Onanuga, the trip was to:
- Appraise the administration’s midterm performance
- Assess ongoing reforms
- Engage in strategic planning to shape policy direction ahead of his administration’s second anniversary
“The period of reflection will inform plans to deepen ongoing reforms and accelerate national development priorities in the coming year,” Onanuga said.
Despite the trip initially being described as brief, the President remained abroad for about two weeks, prompting criticism from opposition parties who cited concerns over insecurity and the extended nature of his absence.
Responding to public concerns on April 17, the Presidency clarified that President Tinubu remained actively engaged with his team throughout his stay abroad and that governance activities continued under his leadership.
“The President’s absence remains temporary and within the communicated timeframe,” Onanuga explained. “His return to Abuja and resumption of duties at Aso Villa follows the conclusion of the Easter holiday.”
He added that Tinubu’s commitment to his responsibilities remains unwavering, and thanked Nigerians for their concerns and understanding.
