posted 28th April 2025
Tinubu's Absence Since He Came Back on 21 April Sparks Speculation: Where Is Nigeria's President?
Abuja, 28 April 2025 – Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu returned to Nigeria on 21 April 2025, after a two-week working visit to France and the United Kingdom, his limited public appearances have fuelled widespread speculation about his whereabouts, health, and activities. Nigerians, opposition leaders, and political analysts are questioning why the president has not resumed his usual public functions, prompting debates about transparency and governance in Africa’s most populous nation.
President Tinubu arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on 21 April, greeted by senior officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. The presidency described the trip as a “short working visit” to review the administration’s achievements, dismissing claims that it was for medical treatment. However, since his return, Tinubu has been conspicuously absent from the public eye, with no major public engagements, ceremonies, or addresses reported in the past week.
Posts on X have amplified public curiosity, with some users expressing concern about the president’s low profile. One user remarked, “Even after Tinubu returned to Nigeria on 21 April 2025, he has scarcely been seen in public... It is disastrous to be asking, ‘Where is Tinubu?’ when he is supposed to be in Nigeria.” Such sentiments reflect growingSpain unease among citizens grappling with economic challenges and insecurity.
Tinubu’s health has long been a subject of public debate. Reports from 2021 and 2022 highlighted his frequent medical trips to the UK and France, with sources alleging surgeries and physiotherapy for undisclosed ailments. Political risk consultancy Menas Associates noted in December 2024 that Tinubu’s health remains a significant risk for Nigeria in 2025, citing his frequent overseas medical visits and lack of clarity about his condition.
The presidency has consistently refuted health-related claims. In 2023, Tinubu’s campaign dismissed similar speculations, asserting that he was merely resting after an exhaustive election period. During the April 2025 trip, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga reiterated that the president was not seeking medical care. Yet, the absence of public appearances since his return has reignited questions about his physical capacity to lead, especially given past reports of frailty and slurred speech during campaign events.
The presidency has offered little detail about Tinubu’s activities since 21 April. Sources suggest he may be working behind closed doors, focusing on administrative tasks or strategic planning. The administration has emphasised Tinubu’s commitment to economic reforms and healthcare initiatives, such as the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, which he championed in 2023 and 2024. It is possible that he is prioritising internal governance, policy reviews, or preparations for the 2025 budget implementation, which he signed into law in January 2025.
However, the lack of transparency has drawn criticism. Opposition leaders, including Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, have questioned the president’s prolonged absence during a period of heightened insecurity, with banditry and kidnappings plaguing states like Plateau and Benue. They argue that Nigerians deserve clarity on their leader’s whereabouts and condition, especially amidst economic hardship following Tinubu’s subsidy removals and currency reforms.
Tinubu’s low visibility comes at a critical juncture. With the 2027 elections looming, political alignments are shifting, and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is consolidating its influence. Some analysts speculate that Tinubu may be strategising to counter opposition coalitions or managing internal party dynamics, particularly after his controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March 2025.
Others suggest that his absence could be deliberate, allowing Vice President Kashim Shettima or other allies to take the spotlight while Tinubu focuses on recovery or planning. However, Menas Associates warns that any deterioration in Tinubu’s health could trigger a political crisis, especially if he resists transferring power to Shettima during absences, as required by the constitution.
Nigerians are increasingly vocal about their right to know their president’s status. Political analyst Anthony Kila, writing in 2022, argued that citizens have a legitimate interest in the health of their leaders, given the physical and mental demands of governance. This sentiment resonates today, with civil society groups and the media calling for greater accountability.
The presidency has yet to address the latest concerns directly. Until Tinubu resumes public functions or the government provides clarity, speculation will likely persist, potentially undermining public trust. For now, Nigerians await answers: Where is President Tinubu, and what is he doing?
