Concerns have been raised over President Bola Tinubu’s recent absence from public engagements, following comments by activist and former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who questioned the president’s visibility and whereabouts.
In a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sowore claimed that Nigeria was effectively operating “without a president,” alleging that Tinubu had not been seen publicly for some time. He described the situation as worrying, especially amid ongoing economic hardship, insecurity, and growing public dissatisfaction across the country.
Sowore called on the Presidency to provide clear information on the president’s status and activities, insisting that Nigerians deserve transparency about their leader’s location and involvement in governance.
As of the time of reporting, there had been no direct official response to Sowore’s remarks. However, government officials have previously maintained that President Tinubu continues to perform his duties, including holding meetings, receiving briefings, and engaging in official responsibilities that are not always open to public view.
The issue has also drawn reactions from opposition figures and civil society groups, who are urging the government to reassure Nigerians about the president’s health, movements, and active leadership at a time of heightened national challenges.
The renewed debate comes against the backdrop of scrutiny over government spending. A review of the 2026 federal budget shows that N6.1 billion has been allocated for President Tinubu’s foreign travels under State House operations, while N873 million is earmarked for local travels. Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to spend N1.3 billion on international trips, bringing the total projected foreign travel expenditure for both leaders to N7.4 billion in 2026.
The budget also allocates N375 million for foodstuffs and catering materials within the fiscal year.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has disclosed that President Tinubu recently travelled from Lagos to Europe as part of his end-of-year break, ahead of an official visit to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president was invited by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to attend the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit.
The summit, scheduled for January, is described as a global forum that brings together leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss sustainable development. The Presidency said President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after the event.
