Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has embarked on several international trips. These journeys have sparked nationwide discussions, with many Nigerians curious about how often he has traveled, the reasons behind each trip, and the potential benefits or consequences to the nation.
In this article, we’ll break down the number of times President Tinubu has traveled since taking office and explore the reasons behind those trips in simple terms for easy understanding.
How Many Times Has Tinubu Travelled?
As of April 2025, President Tinubu has traveled out of the country at least 17 times for various diplomatic, economic, and health-related reasons. These trips include visits to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and other parts of Africa.
While the number may appear high to some, each journey had a purpose—ranging from attracting foreign investment to attending global summits or strengthening bilateral relationships.
Why Has President Tinubu Travelled So Often?
Below is a breakdown of some of the major trips President Tinubu has taken and the reasons behind them.
1. France – Economic and Diplomatic Relations
Shortly after assuming office, President Tinubu visited Paris, France in June 2023 to attend the New Global Financial Pact Summit. The visit was also an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s relationship with European partners and discuss debt relief and investment opportunities.
2. United Kingdom – Personal and Diplomatic Visit
In July 2023, the President reportedly made a private visit to the UK, sparking discussions about possible health check-ups and diplomatic meetings with UK officials. While details were not fully disclosed, the presidency assured Nigerians it was a working visit.
3. Kenya – African Union Summit
In August 2023, Tinubu traveled to Nairobi for the Africa Climate Summit where African leaders gathered to discuss climate action and sustainable development. Nigeria used the platform to advocate for green energy investment.
4. India – G20 Summit
In September 2023, Tinubu attended the G20 Summit in New Delhi as a special guest. This trip was crucial in positioning Nigeria for foreign direct investment. He met with Indian business leaders and secured several investment pledges worth billions of dollars.
5. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Diplomatic Engagement
Later in September, the President visited the UAE to resolve the long-standing visa ban on Nigerians and negotiate the resumption of Emirates Airlines flights to Nigeria. Though results were mixed, the effort showed diplomatic intent.
6. United States – UN General Assembly
In September 2023, Tinubu participated in the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He addressed the global body on Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, economic reforms, and international cooperation.
7. Saudi Arabia – Investment and OPEC Matters
In November 2023, Tinubu visited Riyadh to attend the Saudi-Africa Summit. The visit included discussions on oil production, economic partnerships, and the strengthening of trade between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
8. Germany – G20 Compact with Africa
In December 2023, he traveled to Berlin to attend the G20 Compact with Africa conference. The goal was to attract more private investments and promote Nigeria as an ideal business destination in Africa.
9. Qatar – Investment Talks
In March 2024, the President visited Qatar where he met with key investors and government officials. The trip was focused on enhancing economic cooperation and attracting foreign investments to various sectors in Nigeria.
10. South Africa – Bilateral Relations and Trade
In early 2024, Tinubu traveled to South Africa to strengthen diplomatic ties, improve trade relations, and advocate for better treatment of Nigerian citizens living in the country.
Health-Related Concerns?
There have been speculations that some of the President’s trips were for medical purposes, though not officially confirmed. Given Tinubu’s age and past health concerns, some visits abroad—especially the less publicized ones—may have included health check-ups or treatments.
However, the presidency maintains that most of the President’s travels are for official purposes and are necessary for advancing Nigeria’s global image and economic interests.
What Have These Trips Achieved?
Some critics argue that the frequency of travel raises questions about governance at home. However, the Presidency has defended the trips, stating they have yielded results such as:
- Foreign investment pledges from Indian, Qatari, and German companies
- Renewed international partnerships and cooperation
- Improved diplomatic relations with countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia
- Participation in critical climate and financial discussions shaping Africa’s future
While the benefits of these trips are still unfolding, they are seen by the Tinubu administration as strategic efforts to rebrand Nigeria’s global standing and revamp the economy.
Public Reactions
Nigerians have mixed reactions to Tinubu’s travels. Supporters believe they are necessary for economic revival and global visibility, while critics argue they are excessive and costly, especially during tough economic times in Nigeria.
The key issue remains transparency, accountability, and visible results from the outcomes of these trips.
Conclusion
President Tinubu has traveled more than most newly elected African leaders in recent history. Each trip has been linked to economic, diplomatic, or health-related motives. While some criticize the frequency, others view them as proactive moves in global leadership and investment diplomacy.
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As Nigeria continues to face economic challenges, the question remains: will these frequent travels bring long-term benefits to the Nigerian people? Only time—and policy execution—will tell.
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