President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja from a two-week private trip to Paris, France, landing at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at approximately 9:00 pm local time.
His arrival was welcomed by a number of high-ranking officials, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, among others.
While the purpose of President Tinubu's visit to Paris was not disclosed, it was anticipated that he would return in early February 2024, as stated in a press release dated January 24. This trip marks his third visit to France and his fourteenth international journey since taking office eight months prior.
President Tinubu's international engagements began on June 20, 2023, with a trip to Paris, shortly after his inauguration. There, he attended the Paris Summit for the New Global Financial Pact, focusing on securing support and investment for vulnerable nations affected by climate change, energy crises, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In September 2023, Tinubu participated in the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, his inaugural UNGA appearance as President. Following this, he spent five days in Paris before returning to Abuja for Nigeria's 63rd Independence Day celebrations.
Throughout his presidency, Tinubu has visited numerous countries, including multiple visits to Paris, France; trips to London, UK; Bissau, Guinea-Bissau; Nairobi, Kenya; Porto-Novo, Benin Republic; New Delhi, India; Abu Dhabi and Dubai, UAE; New York, USA; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and Berlin, Germany.
His return coincides with protests in various states against the escalating costs of food and living. Demonstrations have occurred in Minna, Niger State, Kano, and Ondo State, with protestors voicing their frustrations over the increasing cost of living. In Niger, women protesters blocked a major road, demanding action from the Tinubu administration to combat hunger. Despite attempts by security forces to disperse the protests, Tinubu has instructed a special committee on emergency food intervention to devise immediate relief measures.
The president's return also comes amid growing concerns over kidnapping-for-ransom incidents, a depreciating local currency, and delays in the implementation of the promised student loan scheme, originally scheduled for January.
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