Tinubu returns to Aso Villa from Netherlands, Riyadh trips

President Bola Tinubu returned to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, in the early hours of yesterday after a two-week official trip out of the country.

Tinubu, who left Abuja on Tuesday, April 23, en route the Netherlands, on an invitation of the Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, for economic and diplomatic meetings, arrived the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, about 1:45 a.m.

His long stay abroad had raised concerns, with many Nigerians wanting to know the whereabouts of the President, especially as his official trip to the Netherlands and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia had ended and there was no confirmation of his arrival date.

Curiosity was heightened after aides concluded arrangement to receive the President, but the return trip did not take place and officials kept mum.

In Netherlands, the President had engaged in high-level discussions and held separate meetings with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the kingdom.

A statement issued during his stay in the Netherlands by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, explained that the President also participated in the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum that brought together heads of conglomerates and organisations in both countries to explore opportunities for collaboration and partnerships, especially in agriculture and water management towards innovative solutions for sustainable farming practices.

After his engagements in the Netherlands, the President proceeded to attend a special World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting scheduled for April 28 and 29 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

At the World Economic Forum meeting, which focused on Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development, President Tinubu and his entourage used the opportunity of the gathering of over 1,000 leaders to engage in discussions in furtherance of his Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigeria.

At the end of the summit, however, the President did not return to the country immediately and there was no correspondence to explain his elongated stay-away, as he was said to have embarked on a private visit.

Although no official statement was issued on the President’s further engagements abroad, sources within the Presidency confirmed that he proceeded to London for a private visit.

Confirming Tinubu’s return on his verified X handle yesterday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, wrote: “Welcome Home Mr President!”