President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Europe on a three-week annual vacation, with the Presidency explaining that the break is intended to allow him to rest and “refuel” after months of intensive government engagements.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, said Tinubu had spent the past six to seven months dealing with major matters of state, including economic and security decisions.
“The President has had several months — six, seven months — of being engaged with state matters. We’ve seen monumental changes, monumental decisions taken with our security, with our economy and so many other things as pertains to the running of the affairs of this country,” Dare said.
According to the presidential aide, the timing of the vacation is also significant because political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections have commenced. The break will provide an opportunity for the President to recharge before returning to Nigeria for an intensive campaign period.
The Presidency described the trip as a working vacation, indicating that Tinubu would remain engaged with government affairs while away. Reports said he would receive briefings from ministers and security chiefs during the period.
Tinubu’s first destination is London, United Kingdom, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. He is expected to return to Nigeria after the three-week leave and participate in campaign activities ahead of the January 2027 election.
The President’s departure comes at a politically sensitive period, with the 2027 campaign season already underway. Tinubu, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, is expected to face a competitive contest from opposition candidates.
The vacation has also attracted political debate, particularly over its timing amid concerns about insecurity and economic pressures facing Nigerians. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the decision, arguing that the timing raises questions about leadership priorities.
Tinubu’s latest vacation follows Vice President Kashim Shettima’s approved 12-day leave earlier in August.
The President is expected back in Nigeria after the three-week break, after which attention will turn increasingly towards governance and the intensifying 2027 election campaign.
