Foreign Tour | Presidency Says Tinubu Working Remotely from Overseas, to Return After Easter

Tinubu Governs Remotely from Europe, Set to Return April 21 — Presidency Responds to Criticism Over President’s Absence Amid National Security Concerns

The Nigerian Presidency has assured citizens that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully in charge of national affairs despite his extended stay abroad. According to an official statement, the President has been working remotely from Europe over the past two weeks and is expected to return to Nigeria on Monday, April 21.

This clarification comes amid rising public scrutiny and criticism from opposition figures, who have questioned the timing and purpose of Tinubu’s foreign stay—particularly as the nation confronts a wave of deadly attacks and rising insecurity in parts of the country. Recent violent incidents in Plateau and Benue states, allegedly perpetrated by suspected armed herdsmen, have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of innocent civilians and the destruction of entire communities. Critics argue that the President’s absence during such a critical period sends the wrong signal and undermines confidence in the government’s commitment to addressing the security crisis.

In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Presidency emphasized that President Tinubu has not abdicated his responsibilities. Onanuga confirmed that Tinubu, who traveled from Paris to London over the weekend, remains deeply engaged in the day-to-day running of government affairs. He added that the President is in constant communication with top government officials and has issued instructions on key national matters, including security.

“The President has directed security chiefs to intensify their efforts in tackling emerging threats in various parts of the country,” Onanuga said. “His current absence is temporary and fully within the two-week timeframe previously communicated.”

While the Presidency has not provided detailed information regarding the specific purpose of Tinubu’s visits to Paris and London, observers note that such trips are consistent with the President’s practice of combining diplomatic engagements with working retreats—a pattern that has emerged since he assumed office nearly two years ago.

The statement aims to calm growing concerns over leadership at a time when Nigerians are demanding decisive action and transparency from their leaders. Although the administration maintains that Tinubu remains accessible and actively involved in the country’s governance, the lack of visible presidential presence during national emergencies continues to be a point of contention for critics and civil society groups.

President Tinubu’s anticipated return on April 21 coincides with the conclusion of the Easter holiday period, during which Christians across the nation have been observing Good Friday and Easter Monday. Whether his return will be accompanied by concrete action on the security situation remains to be seen, but expectations are high for a stronger and more visible federal response in the days ahead.