Tinubu begins three-week annual leave, departs Abuja for Europe

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commenced a three-week annual leave, embarking on a European vacation on Sunday, as disclosed by Bayo Onanuga, the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. This vacation coincides with the heightened political activities preceding Nigeria's 2027 general elections, slated for January 16 of that year.

Tinubu will be in Europe for three weeks before returning to Nigeria to resume official duties and engage in election-related events. The sudden announcement of his departure caught the administration off guard, as there had been no prior notification of an annual leave. The Presidency revealed that Tinubu's initial destination would be London, United Kingdom, without providing a detailed itinerary or indicating whether he would explore other European nations during his trip.

This marks Tinubu's first substantial annual leave in 2026; his previous leave in 2025 lasted ten working days and took him to France and the United Kingdom. Tinubu had previously enjoyed a two-week vacation in the United Kingdom in October 2024, during which he reflected on economic reforms and held consultations. The timing of Tinubu's three-week vacation aligns with the already active election campaign period in Nigeria, as he aims for a second term under the All Progressives Congress.

The election, anticipated to see competition from various opposition politicians and parties, is set to be held on January 16, 2027.