President Bola Tinubu returned to Nigeria on Tuesday night following a two-week private trip to Paris, France.

The presidential aircraft, NAF 001, landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja around 9 pm. Upon arrival, the President was greeted by key government figures, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Also present were the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani; the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri; the Director-General of the Department of State Service, Yusuf Bichi, among others.

Although the purpose of the visit was not disclosed by the presidency, a statement issued on January 24 indicated that the President was expected to return “in the first week of February 2024”.

This marked Tinubu’s third trip to France and his 14th foreign visit since assuming office eight months ago. His return coincided with protests in several states over the escalating costs of food and living expenses. In response, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, announced that Tinubu had instructed immediate measures to alleviate hardships and prevent further security challenges.

Following a meeting of the Special Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention chaired by the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, Idris stated, “The President has directed that the government intervene to address the issue of food scarcity or inadequate food supply for many Nigerians.” He emphasized ongoing discussions with millers and major commodity traders to increase supply and reduce prices, while also acknowledging attempts by certain groups to exploit high food prices and currency depreciation for personal gain.