By Obinna Uballa
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended President Bola Tinubu, insisting he remains fully engaged in governing Nigeria, both at home and abroad, amid criticism from Peter Obi.
The New Diplomat had reported that Obi, former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate, had questioned Tinubu’s visibility, alleging that the President spent 196 days outside Nigeria in 2025 – more than he spent within the country – and that Nigerians had not heard directly from him since December 2025.
Responding, APC spokesman Seye Oladejo said in a statement on Tuesday that the President is not missing or neglecting his duties. “He is actively involved in the complex and demanding work of statecraft, which includes policy coordination, security oversight, diplomatic engagements, and economic reforms,” Oladejo said.
He added that governance is measured not by constant public appearances but by “the quality of decisions taken, the policies implemented, and the outcomes delivered in the national interest.” The spokesman stressed that Tinubu’s schedule is guided by national priorities, not political commentary, and highlighted the administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic reforms, security coordination, and international diplomacy.
Tinubu had left Lagos on December 28, 2025, for Europe to conclude end-of-year engagements and prepare for an official visit to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, at the invitation of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The President arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday to participate in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026), which began on Monday.
Oladejo urged political actors to focus on constructive engagement, offering ideas and alternatives to advance national development rather than raising concerns that could fuel public anxiety.
