Tinubu Extends Working Vacation, Set To Return This Weekend

ABUJA, NIGERIA — President Bola Tinubu has extended his ongoing working vacation by a few days and is now expected to return to the country this weekend, according to an official statement released by the Presidency on Monday.

The President departed Nigeria on August 30, 2026, beginning his trip in London before traveling to Paris, France. While in Paris, President Tinubu held high-profile strategic meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and prominent businessman Vincent Bolloré, whose media portfolio includes major brands like Canal+, Multichoice, and Universal Music Group.

Despite being out of the country, the Presidency emphasized that Tinubu remains fully engaged in state affairs. From abroad, he recently ordered an independent panel to investigate the tragic deaths of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

In his absence, official functions continue to be managed seamlessly by top government officials. Vice President Kashim Shettima left Abuja on September 20 for New York to represent the President and deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Locally, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, alongside campaign council leaders, continues to handle domestic state duties and prominent traditional consultations.

The State House also used the briefing to firmly push back against critics. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled recent criticisms from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a U.S.-based lobbying firm regarding Tinubu’s absence from UNGA as “baseless” and “irresponsible,” reiterating that Nigeria is being fully and effectively represented on the global stage.