TINUBU RETURNS TO NIGERIA AFTER FOUR WEEK EUROPE TRIP

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after spending approximately four weeks in Europe, bringing an end to an extended trip that generated political debate over the length of his absence.

The President arrived in Lagos from Paris, France, aboard Nigerian Air Force One on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

His aircraft taxied into the presidential wing of Murtala Muhammed International Airport at about 6:22 p.m. WAT.

Tinubu was received by senior government officials, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Security officials were also present.

Channels Television reported that journalists at the airport were prevented from taking visuals of the President's arrival, with media coverage restricted as his aircraft made its way to the terminal.

TINUBU SAYS HE IS HEALTHY AND READY TO GO

Speaking following his return, Tinubu said he had enjoyed his stay in Europe and dismissed concerns that had circulated about his health.

Asked about his vacation, the President described it as fantastic.

Addressing speculation about his health, Tinubu said he was healthy, sound and ready to resume his activities.

His comments came after weeks of political debate and speculation surrounding his extended stay outside Nigeria.

The presidency had repeatedly maintained that Tinubu remained in contact with officials and continued directing government affairs while abroad.

FOUR WEEKS IN EUROPE

Tinubu departed Abuja on August 30 for what the presidency initially described as a three week working vacation.

London was his first destination.

After approximately one week in the United Kingdom, he traveled to Paris, where he spent the remainder of his stay and participated in several official and business engagements.

The presidency subsequently announced that the vacation had been extended by a few days.

Tinubu met French President Emmanuel Macron during his time in France and also held discussions with business leaders including Vincent Bolloré.

He also met First HoldCo Chairman Femi Otedola.

The President was present when the Ogun State Government signed an agreement with global ports operator DP World for the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and Blue Marine Economic Zone.

JOURNALISTS RESTRICTED AT AIRPORT

Channels Television reported that journalists waiting at Murtala Muhammed International Airport were prevented from taking visuals of Tinubu's arrival.

The reason for the restriction was not immediately explained in the report.

Despite the restrictions, the President's arrival was confirmed by multiple Nigerian news organizations.

His return ends weeks of speculation over when he would arrive after his initial vacation schedule was extended.

INDEPENDENCE DAY ACTIVITIES NEXT

Tinubu is expected to remain in Lagos as Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 66th Independence anniversary on October 1.

The Federal Government has scheduled several activities surrounding the anniversary.

The President is expected to deliver an Independence Day national broadcast and participate in official engagements while in Lagos.

He is also scheduled to attend the premiere of a production honoring the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Iganmu.

Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja after completing his engagements in Lagos.

His arrival marks the end of a four week European stay that attracted criticism from opposition figures, particularly after he did not personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Nigeria and delivered the country's national statement at the gathering.

With Tinubu now back in Nigeria, attention shifts to his Independence Day engagements and his return to regular official duties in Abuja.