UPDATED: Tinubu begins three-week vacation ahead of 2027 election campaign

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Europe to begin a three-week vacation as part of his annual leave, the Presidency announced on Sunday.

The President’s vacation comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the Presidency saying he is expected to return to Nigeria and join the campaign activities for the January 2027 election.

Tinubu’s first stop will be London, United Kingdom, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja today for Europe to begin a three-week vacation as part of his annual leave.

“His first stop will be London, United Kingdom,” Onanuga said.

He added that the President would return to Nigeria after the working vacation to participate in the campaign for the 2027 election.

“President Tinubu is expected to return home after the working vacation to join the hectic campaign for the January 2027 election,” he said.

The President’s departure comes days after Vice President Kashim Shettima resumed official duties following a two-week leave.

Shettima commenced his leave on August 6, 2026, following approval by President Tinubu.

He subsequently returned to Nigeria and resumed work two days ahead of his scheduled August 20 return date.

At the time his leave was announced, the Vice President’s spokesperson said the period would be used for study, reflection and intellectual renewal.

With Shettima back at work, Tinubu’s three-week absence from the country comes as the administration continues preparations for the 2027 election and handles ongoing government business.

Tinubu’s latest vacation is his third annual leave since he assumed office in May 2023.

In September 2025, the President embarked on a 10-working-day annual leave, during which he travelled to France and the United Kingdom. The Presidency described the trip as a working vacation.

In October 2024, Tinubu also proceeded on a two-week annual leave to the United Kingdom, which was described by the Presidency as a working retreat.

The Presidency did not provide details of the President’s full itinerary for the three-week vacation beyond stating that London would be his first destination.

Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after the vacation and resume official duties as preparations for the 2027 election intensify.