Tinubu Departs For Three-Week Vacation In Europe

President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Europe to begin a three-week vacation as part of his annual leave, with London confirmed as his first destination.

The Presidency announced the trip on Sunday, saying Tinubu would spend the period on a working vacation before returning to Nigeria to resume official duties and participate in preparations for the January 2027 general elections.

The President’s departure comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections. The official campaign period for the presidential and National Assembly elections has already begun, with political parties and their candidates increasing mobilisation across the country.

Tinubu is seeking re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. His administration has continued to defend its economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system, despite criticism from opposition parties and concerns over the cost of living.

The President’s three-week break follows a busy period of domestic and international engagements. His administration has recently focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, national security, investment and efforts to address food security and rising living costs.

According to the Presidency, Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after the working vacation and join the campaign ahead of the January 2027 elections. The statement did not provide details of other European destinations he may visit during the period.

The announcement also did not state whether the President had transferred executive authority to Vice President Kashim Shettima while away from the country. Shettima recently returned from his own approved leave and has continued to represent the President at official engagements.

Tinubu’s vacation comes at a politically significant time, with opposition figures intensifying criticism of his administration and preparing to challenge the ruling party in the next presidential election.

Political debates have increasingly centred on petrol prices, economic reforms, insecurity, unemployment and the government’s management of public resources. The administration maintains that its policies are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and create a more sustainable foundation for development.

The President is expected to return at the end of the three-week vacation, after which he will resume his official engagements and continue preparations for the 2027 election campaign.