The Nigerian Presidency has reassured citizens that there is no vacuum in the country’s leadership, despite both President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima being out of the country.
This clarification was made in response to concerns raised by journalists about who is currently overseeing national affairs.
In a statement released on Wednesday, October 16, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, emphasised that both leaders remain actively engaged in the governance of Nigeria even while abroad.
“It is important to note that the President and Vice President are fully engaged with the nation’s affairs, even while they are away. There is no leadership vacuum in the country,” Onanuga said.
President Tinubu, who left the country on October 3, is currently on a two-week working vacation. Onanuga stressed that the President continues to direct state matters during this time.
“During his vacation, he has been busy answering phones and issuing directives on matters of state. He will return to the country before the vacation officially ends,” Onanuga added.
Similarly, Vice President Shettima embarked on an official visit to Sweden on Wednesday. Despite their absence, the Presidency assured Nigerians that the nation’s institutions remain fully operational, with key government officials such as the Senate President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, and service chiefs actively performing their duties.
Onanuga also referenced previous instances when both the President and Vice President were out of the country simultaneously, such as in 2022, when former President Muhammadu Buhari attended the 77th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) while former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo attended the burial of Queen Elizabeth II.
A similar situation occurred earlier this year under the current administration, according to Onanuga, reaffirming that such instances do not hinder the functioning of government.
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