Tinubu cuts vacation short, returns to Abuja Tuesday

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ended his work vacation earlier than planned and will return to Abuja on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, to resume his official duties.

This is according to a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The announcement underscores Tinubu’s commitment to addressing pressing national issues, cutting short a trip that was initially set to span France and the United Kingdom.

Recalled that the President departed Nigeria on September 4, 2025, for what was described as a work vacation, a period intended to combine rest with strategic engagements. While in Paris, Tinubu held a significant private luncheon with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.

The meeting focused on strengthening Nigeria-France relations, with both leaders discussing enhanced cooperation in trade, security, and sustainable development.

“President Tinubu’s decision to return ahead of schedule reflects his unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s progress,” Onanuga said in the press release.

“His productive engagement with President Macron in Paris demonstrates his commitment to fostering international partnerships that will drive economic growth and stability for our nation.”

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu has prioritized economic reforms and international diplomacy to reposition Nigeria as a global economic player. His administration has pursued ambitious policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and efforts to unify the country’s foreign exchange rates, aimed at stabilizing the economy. These measures, while sparking debates due to their immediate impact on living costs, have been presented as critical steps toward long-term prosperity.

Tinubu’s work vacation, a concept blending official duties with personal time, is not uncommon among global leaders. The trip to France provided an opportunity to advance Nigeria’s diplomatic ties with a key European partner. France has historically been a significant ally, with investments in Nigeria’s energy, infrastructure, and security sectors. The Élysée Palace meeting with Macron was a strategic move to deepen these ties, particularly in areas like renewable energy and counterterrorism, where both nations share mutual interests.

“President Tinubu’s engagement with President Macron was a game-changer,” said Dr. Aisha Mohammed, a Lagos-based political analyst. “It signals Nigeria’s intent to strengthen bilateral ties with France, which could open doors for more foreign direct investment and collaboration in critical sectors like technology and agriculture.”