President Bola Tinubu arrived back in Nigeria on Tuesday night following a two-week private visit to Paris, France. His return coincides with mounting concerns over rising food prices and living expenses across the nation.
Tinubu’s arrival at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at approximately 9 pm was marked by the presence of top government officials, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike. Also in attendance were Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri, and Director-General of the Department of State Service Yusuf Bichi, among others.
While the specifics of Tinubu’s visit remained undisclosed, his return follows protests in several states over the escalating cost of living and food shortages. Angry demonstrations erupted in Minna, Kano, and Ondo State on Monday and Tuesday.
In response to the growing unrest, Tinubu directed immediate interventions to address the challenges and prevent further deterioration of security. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, announced Tinubu’s directive after a meeting of the Special Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention, chaired by Gbajabiamila at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
Idris emphasized that the government is actively engaging with stakeholders, including millers and major commodity traders, to increase food supply and stabilize prices. He reassured Nigerians that discussions are ongoing, and solutions are imminent.
Furthermore, Idris highlighted the government’s efforts to counteract opportunistic elements exploiting high food prices and currency depreciation. He stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and addressing the underlying economic challenges facing the nation.
