President Bola Tinubu returned to Lagos on Tuesday after a monthlong vacation abroad, dismissing speculation about his health and saying he was prepared to resume work.
“Rumours will always emanate from politics,” Tinubu Tinubu told reporters and supporters who gathered at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Ikeja.
“But the fact is, I am here, hale, hearty, sound, ready to kick, ready to work.”
The President’s return followed an extended trip that had initially been expected to last three weeks.
President Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for what his office described as a working vacation.
The trip was extended by about a week after the initial three-week period elapsed on September 21, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga said in a statement.
Onanuga had said Tinubu was expected back in Nigeria over the weekend.
President Tinubu’s long stay fueled renewed speculation over his location and health, including unverified reports that he had been admitted to a hospital in France for undisclosed treatment.
Tinubu’s media team rejected those claims, saying the president remained on a working vacation and could carry out official duties from abroad.
Arriving in Lagos in a flowing traditional gown and his trademark Asiwaju cap, Mr. Tinubu said he had enjoyed the break.
“I enjoyed myself,” he said when asked about his vacation.
President Tinubu’s remarks appeared aimed at drawing a line under the speculation and shifting attention back to his government’s agenda as he prepares to resume official engagements.
