President Bola Tinubu Returns to Nigeria After Nearly Two Weeks Abroad
ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu returned to Abuja on Monday, April 21, 2025, concluding an 18-day working visit to Europe that drew both official explanations and political controversy. The president’s aircraft touched down at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 9:50 p.m., where he was welcomed by senior government officials, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike.
Purpose of the Trip
President Tinubu departed Nigeria on April 2, 2025, for Paris, France, on what the presidency described as a “short working visit.” According to Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, the president used the time to appraise his administration’s mid-term performance, review key milestones, and engage in strategic planning ahead of his second anniversary in office15. The retreat also allowed Tinubu to assess the progress of ongoing reforms and set new targets for the coming months1.
While in Paris, Tinubu held a high-level meeting with Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. Department of State. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, enhancing regional security, and promoting sustainable economic development across Africa. A significant part of the talks addressed joint efforts to advance peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasizing multilateral collaboration and the role of regional stakeholders2.
After his engagements in France, Tinubu proceeded to London for further consultations and strategic planning.
Governance During Absence
Throughout his time abroad, the presidency maintained that Tinubu remained fully engaged with his team in Nigeria, overseeing governance activities and issuing directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats, particularly in areas experiencing insecurity such as Plateau and Benue states. Onanuga assured the public that the president’s absence was temporary, aligned with the previously communicated timeline, and that governance continued without interruption.
Political Reactions and Criticism
Tinubu’s extended absence sparked criticism from opposition leaders and segments of the public, especially as Nigeria grappled with a spike in violence and insecurity in several regions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi were among those who publicly called for the president’s immediate return, citing the gravity of recent killings in Plateau and Benue states. Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, accused Tinubu of being detached from the nation’s urgent security challenges, stating, “While Tinubu dines under chandeliers in the land of good governance, the country he governs is spiraling into chaos. Plateau has turned into a killing field — over 100 lives lost in relentless attacks”.
Peter Obi echoed these concerns, urging Tinubu to “immediately suspend his ongoing retreat in a foreign land and come home to address the overwhelming security situation across the country,” noting that more than 150 Nigerians had lost their lives to insecurity during the president’s absence.
The presidency responded by emphasizing that Tinubu was working remotely, remained up to speed with developments at home, and continued to provide leadership throughout his trip.
Return and Next Steps
Upon his return, President Tinubu is expected to resume his duties at the State House in Abuja, continuing with the implementation of his administration’s reforms and addressing the country’s security and economic challenges15. The presidency has reiterated Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to his responsibilities and assured Nigerians that the administration remains focused on delivering on its mandate.
