The Presidency has clarified that there is no leadership vacuum in Nigeria, despite President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima being out of the country. This statement comes in response to growing concerns raised by journalists regarding who is currently overseeing national affairs.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, October 16, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, emphasized that both the President and Vice President remain fully engaged in the governance of the nation, 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 stated.
President Tinubu has been on a two-week working vacation since October 3, during which he continues to oversee national matters. Onanuga reassured citizens, saying, “During this time, he has been busy answering phones and issuing directives on matters of state. He will soon return to the country before the vacation officially expires.”
Vice President Shettima also embarked on an official visit to Sweden on Wednesday. Despite their absence, Onanuga affirmed that government operations are proceeding as normal, with key officials such as the Senate President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministers, and service chiefs maintaining their responsibilities.
Drawing on historical context, Onanuga noted that similar situations have occurred in the past, referencing when former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo were both out of the country in 2022. “President Buhari attended UNGA 77, while Osinbajo participated in the burial of Queen Elizabeth II,” he remarked, underscoring that the current administration has also experienced comparable scenarios.
As the situation develops, the Presidency aims to reassure the public that governance remains stable and effective, even in the absence of its top leaders.