It’s expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend, the Presidency has announced.
Tinubu initially departed Nigeria on August 30 for London, United Kingdom, where he began his working vacation. After spending about a week in London, the President travelled to Paris, France, for further engagements.
During his stay in France, Tinubu held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré, whose business interests include Canal+, MultiChoice and Universal Music Group.
Despite being outside the country, the Presidency said Tinubu has remained in regular contact with officials at home and continued to direct the affairs of government.
One of the issues he addressed while away was the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The President ordered the establishment of an independent panel to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Tinubu has also delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at several official engagements during his absence.
Shettima departed Abuja on September 20 for New York, where he is representing President Tinubu at the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
The Vice President is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the global gathering.
With Shettima now in the United States, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who has also represented the President at official events, will continue to perform such duties on Tinubu’s behalf.
The Presidency also responded to criticism surrounding Tinubu’s decision not to personally attend this year’s UN General Assembly.
It described insinuations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm led by an ex-convict concerning Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA as “irresponsible.”
According to the Presidency, Nigeria remains adequately represented at the international gathering through Vice President Shettima.
Meanwhile, political activities have continued while the President is away.
The Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abubakar Yari, has been leading senior party figures in consultations with prominent traditional rulers across the country.
The Presidency said Tinubu is expected back in Nigeria at the weekend after extending his working vacation by a few days.
Clearer View Blog
