By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, returned to Nigeria after an extended stay in Europe, declaring that he is healthy, sound and ready to resume his official duties.
Tinubu made the declaration shortly after arriving at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, following his four-week European working vacation.
Asked about his experience during the trip, the President said he enjoyed himself, before responding to concerns and rumours surrounding his health while he was away.
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“I enjoyed myself. I’m ready to kick, ready to work. There’s nothing wrong with my health. Rumours will always emanate from politics. The fact remains, I’m here, healthy, sound and ready to go,” Tinubu said.
The President had departed Nigeria on August 30 for what the Presidency described as a working vacation, initially travelling to London before proceeding to Paris, France.
His prolonged stay in Europe had generated public and political discussions, including speculation about his health. Tinubu’s statement on Tuesday represented his direct response to the concerns as he returned to the country.
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During his stay in France, the President held a number of engagements, including a private dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron and meetings with business leaders. The Presidency also said he remained engaged with developments in Nigeria while away.
Tinubu arrived in Lagos at about 6:22 p.m. and was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other dignitaries. He is expected to remain in Lagos for official engagements and activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the President is also expected to return to Abuja after the Independence celebrations and other engagements in Lagos, according to the Presidency.
