President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after spending about four weeks on a working vacation in Europe, dismissing concerns over his health and declaring that he is “healthy, sound, and ready to go.”
Tinubu arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, at about 6:22 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, after departing Paris, France.
The President had left Nigeria on August 30 for London before proceeding to Paris, where he held a number of official and business-related engagements.
Speaking with journalists shortly after his arrival in Lagos, Tinubu responded to questions about concerns raised over his health during his extended stay abroad.
“There’s nothing wrong. Rumour will always be emanating from politics, but the facts remain: I’m here. Healthy, sound, and ready to go,” the President said.
He also said he was “ready to kick” and “ready to walk”, while dismissing the health concerns as rumours.
Tinubu was received at the airport by several senior government officials and political figures, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Tinubu’s activities in Europe
During his stay in Europe, the President met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.
He also witnessed the signing of agreements between the Ogun State Government and DP World concerning the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and Blue Marine Economic Zone in Ogun Waterside.
The Presidency said DP World plans to invest $7 billion in the proposed development.
Tinubu also held a private meeting with businessman Femi Otedola before ending his stay in France.
President to remain in Lagos
Following his return, Tinubu is expected to remain in Lagos for several days before returning to Abuja.
According to the Presidency, the President will attend activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, including the premiere of a movie honouring the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Lagos.
He is also expected to hold meetings with political leaders and associates during his stay in the state.
Tinubu’s return ends his extended working vacation, which had generated public discussion over the length of his absence from Nigeria.
The Presidency had earlier announced that the President’s vacation would be extended by a few days, while maintaining that he remained in contact with officials at home and continued to direct the affairs of government during his stay abroad.
