Onanuga says president remains engaged during working vacation as Tinubu oversees investment engagements in France
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Presidency has assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is “hale and hearty” and continues to discharge his responsibilities while on a working vacation in Europe.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said on Sunday that Tinubu does not need to be physically present in Abuja to carry out his presidential duties, noting that the President has remained engaged with government and investment matters while away.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for his annual vacation, initially travelling to London before moving to Paris, France. The Presidency later extended the vacation by a few days.
During his stay in France, Tinubu witnessed the signing of agreements between the Ogun State Government and DP World for the development of the Gateway Deep Seaport at Ogun Waterside and the Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone.
The projects are expected to attract an initial investment of more than $7 billion and create more than 50,000 direct jobs when fully developed.
The President has also delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent Nigeria at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Federal Government said Shettima is carrying the President’s full mandate and is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level engagements.
The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA does not prevent Nigeria from being fully represented at the global gathering.
Onanuga’s latest statement came amid public questions over the President’s whereabouts and his decision not to attend the UN General Assembly personally.
The Presidency has said Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria this week after the extension of his working vacation.
The President is expected to participate in activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary upon his return.
