President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to leave Abuja on Sunday for Europe as he begins a three-week vacation as part of his annual leave, according to the Presidency. The trip comes months before the expected political activities surrounding the January 2027 election, with the President scheduled to return to Nigeria after the break.
Onanuga Announces Tinubu's Departure
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, disclosed the President's travel plans in a statement issued on Sunday.
According to Onanuga, Tinubu's first destination will be London, United Kingdom.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja today for Europe to begin a three-week vacation as part of his annual leave,” Onanuga said.
He added that the President would spend part of the vacation in London before returning to Nigeria.
Why Tinubu's Trip Matters
The timing of the vacation is notable because the President is expected to return to Nigeria and participate in political activities ahead of the January 2027 election.
The Presidency described the trip as a working vacation and part of Tinubu's annual leave rather than an official state visit.
For Nigerians, the President's absence from the country will put attention on how government activities are handled during the three-week period and when he is expected to resume his regular schedule.
Tinubu Expected Back Before 2027 Campaign Activities
Onanuga said Tinubu would return to Nigeria after the working vacation and join the campaign activities ahead of the January 2027 election.
“President Tinubu is expected to return home after the working vacation to join the hectic campaign for the January 2027 election,” he said.
The statement provides an indication of the President's schedule as political activities begin to take greater prominence ahead of the election.
What Happens Next?
Tinubu is expected to travel to London as the first stop on his European vacation and spend the next three weeks on his annual leave.
After the vacation, the President is expected to return to Nigeria and resume his activities, including preparations for the January 2027 election campaign.
The Presidency did not disclose further details about the President's itinerary or the other European destinations he may visit during the vacation.