President Bola Tinubu has extended his ongoing working vacation and is now expected to return to Nigeria this weekend.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 and first travelled to London. He spent about a week there before moving to Paris, France. During his stay, he met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. Bolloré has business interests in Canal+, Multichoice and Universal Music Group.
Despite his absence, Tinubu has continued to oversee government affairs from abroad. He has also issued several directives on issues back home. One major directive followed the deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna. Tinubu ordered an independent panel to investigate the incident after their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima has represented Tinubu at several official events. However, Shettima travelled to New York on September 20 for the 81st United Nations General Assembly. He is representing Tinubu and will deliver Nigeria’s national statement.
With Shettima at the UN, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, will represent the President at official functions. At the same time, Presidential Campaign Council Director-General Abubakar Yari has led ruling party officials in meetings with traditional rulers across Nigeria.
The Presidency also addressed criticism over Tinubu’s absence from UNGA. Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga called claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a US-based lobbying firm “irresponsible.” He added that
“Vice President Shettima, who is representing the President at the global conference, will present Nigeria’s national statement.”
