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| President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu |
President Bola Tinubu has postponed his planned return to Nigeria following a last-minute change in his travel itinerary, according to sources who spoke to TheCable.
Earlier reports indicated the president was expected back this weekend after several weeks in Europe on a working vacation. He was scheduled to arrive in Lagos and remain there for up to a week before travelling to Abuja. The revised plan now points to a return on Tuesday.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for London to begin what the Presidency described as a three-week working vacation as part of his annual leave. After about a week in the United Kingdom, he travelled to Paris, where he held meetings that included French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.
On September 21, the Presidency announced an extension of the stay by a few days, with a return expected at the weekend. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga stated that Tinubu had remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and continued to direct government affairs while abroad. One example cited was the directive for an independent panel to investigate the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Minna, Niger State.
During the president’s absence, Vice-President Kashim Shettima represented him at certain official functions. Shettima later travelled to New York on September 20 to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the 81st United Nations General Assembly. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has also stepped in for official engagements.
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Constitutional questions raised
The length of the absence has prompted discussion among some opposition figures about the transfer of presidential powers. Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) requires the President to transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation or otherwise unable to discharge the functions of the office. Upon such transmission, the Vice-President acts as President.
Critics have questioned whether a formal handover should have occurred after more than 21 days. The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu has continued to exercise authority remotely and has not indicated any formal transmission of a declaration under Section 145.
What happens next
As of the latest available reports, the president’s return is now expected on Tuesday, with arrival in Lagos. Details of the exact schedule and subsequent movements to Abuja may still be adjusted. Further official confirmation from the Presidency would provide the clearest update.
This development continues a pattern of extended working travel while government operations proceed under the direction of the president and designated officials. Readers are advised to follow official statements for any further changes to the itinerary.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers news, politics, current affairs, education, and technology.
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