A recent trend has been observed in the Nigerian Presidency’s handling of information regarding President Bola Tinubu’s foreign trips, with the return dates not being disclosed. This was evident when President Tinubu departed Abuja on January 26, 2026, for a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye. The Presidency’s statement described the visit as a multi-day diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Türkiye across key sectors, but it did not specify the exact duration of the trip.
The statement merely noted that the President would return “at the conclusion of the visit,” without providing a specific date. This lack of clarity has raised questions, with some critics suggesting it has become a pattern whenever the President travels abroad. Paul Ibe, media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, expressed concerns about this trend, questioning the reason behind not disclosing the President’s return date.
Ibe’s comments highlight the need for transparency in the Presidency’s handling of information regarding the President’s foreign trips. The lack of clarity on the duration of the President’s visit to Türkiye has sparked curiosity, with some wondering if this is a deliberate attempt to keep the public in the dark. The Nigerian public has a right to know the itinerary of their President, especially when it comes to foreign trips that may have significant implications for the country’s bilateral relations and economic interests.
The Presidency’s decision not to disclose the return date of the President’s trip has raised eyebrows, and it remains to be seen how this trend will evolve in the future. As President Tinubu continues to embark on diplomatic engagements, it is essential for the Presidency to strike a balance between national security concerns and the public’s right to information. The Nigerian public will be watching closely to see how the Presidency handles information regarding future foreign trips, and it is hoped that the government will prioritize transparency and accountability in its dealings.
