NIGERIA: Presidency Dismisses Health Concerns After Tinubu’s Stumble in Türkiye

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Presidency has dismissed concerns over the health of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following a brief stumble during an official welcome ceremony in Ankara, Türkiye, assuring Nigerians that the President remains hale, hearty, and fully engaged in his state visit.

This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to The President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare on Tuesday.

He said: “President Tinubu in great shape as state visit proceed smoothly. Tinubu after a stately welcome ceremony in Ankara proceeded to scheduled bilateral meetings with President of Turkey and other senior government officials from both countries. ⁦”

The clarification followed widespread public reaction to footage showing President Tinubu momentarily losing balance during a reception on Tuesday, an incident that sparked speculation about his wellbeing.

According to the Presidency, the stumble was caused by a poorly laid blue carpet at the venue and not by any medical condition.

The President was said to have immediately recovered from the incident and continued with his scheduled engagements without interruption.

The Presidency further disclosed that President Tinubu has since resumed official duties and is currently holding bilateral talks with Turkish authorities as part of the state visit, with a joint press conference expected after the meeting.

Officials stressed that the President remains in good health and high spirits, urging the public to disregard what it described as unfounded speculations surrounding

the incident.