Governance still active, Tinubu monitoring Nigeria from Abroad – Presidency

As concerns grow over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s continued stay outside the country, the Presidency has responded, assuring Nigerians that the president is fully in control of the nation’s affairs.

In a statement released on Thursday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, clarified that although President Tinubu is currently outside Nigeria, he remains in close touch with developments back home.

Amid a rise in insecurity, including killings and rampant kidnappings, opposition figures have demanded that the president cut short his trip and return to Nigeria.

Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who both contested against Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, described his prolonged absence as unacceptable.

However, Onanuga stood in defense of the president, saying, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully engaged in Nigeria’s governance even though he is away in Europe.

His absence remains temporary and in line with the communicated timeframe of approximately two weeks.”

He explained that President Tinubu left Paris for London over the weekend and has been in constant communication with key government officials.

According to him, Tinubu has continued to oversee critical national issues, including giving direct orders to security agencies to tackle security challenges in parts of the country.

Onanuga added, “His return to Abuja and the resumption of duties at Aso Villa will follow the conclusion of the Easter holiday.”

“The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership.”

“We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption.”

Despite the criticism, the Presidency maintains that President Tinubu’s temporary absence does not hinder the smooth running of government activities.