President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days, with the Presidency confirming that he is now expected to return to Nigeria this weekend.
Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London, where he began his annual working vacation. After spending about a week in the United Kingdom, the President travelled to Paris, France, for the second phase of his European trip.
While in Paris, Tinubu met French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré, whose business interests include Canal+, MultiChoice and Universal Music Group. The meetings have attracted attention because of the importance of France and other European partners to Nigeria’s diplomatic, economic and investment interests.
The Presidency said the President’s extended stay should not be interpreted as an abandonment of his official responsibilities. According to the State House, Tinubu has remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and has continued to direct government affairs while abroad.
The President’s absence has nevertheless generated political discussion in Nigeria, particularly because the extension comes at a time when several major national issues are developing at home. His absence also coincides with the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, where Vice President Kashim Shettima is representing Nigeria.
Tinubu’s original three-week vacation was announced by the State House on August 30, with the President initially expected to return after the European break. The Presidency has now confirmed that his return has been pushed to the weekend.
For Nigerians following the trajectory of the administration, the meeting with Bolloré remains particularly interesting because of his significant interests in regional broadcasting, television, entertainment and telecommunications. However, detailed information about the issues discussed during the Paris meeting has not been publicly released.
The extension has also become part of a wider political conversation ahead of the 2027 election cycle. Opposition figures have questioned the timing and length of the trip, while the Presidency has maintained that the President remains in charge of the government.
With Tinubu now expected back in Nigeria this weekend, attention will likely shift to the issues awaiting him at home, including economic pressures, security concerns, political preparations and questions surrounding the administration’s handling of major national developments during his absence.
