PRESIDENT TINUBU EXTENDS WORKING VACATION, TO RETURN AT WEEKEND

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his working vacation by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend, the Presidency has announced.

According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London before proceeding to Paris, France, where he held engagements with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.

The Presidency said the President has remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and continued to direct the affairs of government while abroad. It cited his directive for an independent investigation into the reported deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Minna, Niger State, among other actions.

During his absence, Vice President Kashim Shettima has represented the President at some official functions. Shettima travelled to New York on September 20 to represent Nigeria at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where he is expected to present Nigeria’s national statement.

With the Vice President at the UN General Assembly, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, is expected to continue representing the President at official engagements, according to the Presidency.

The Presidency did not give a specific date for Tinubu’s return but said he is expected back in Nigeria at the weekend.