[EXCLUSIVE] Health Concerns Mount as President Tinubu Misses Key Functions, Presidency Denies Illness Rumours

– Story | Written by SpringnewsNG Media Limited): August 7,2025

Concerns are growing over the health of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his noticeable absence from key national functions in recent days. Reliable sources informed The ICIR that the President may be flown abroad for urgent medical attention as his personal medical team monitors his condition. However, the presidency has firmly dismissed these speculations as baseless rumours.

Multiple sources within Aso Rock disclosed that President Tinubu has been confined to his residence and has cancelled several high-profile engagements since the beginning of the week. In his absence, Vice President Kashim Shettima has been representing the Presidency at official events, further fueling public curiosity and concern.

Tinubu’s Health Under Scrutiny Amid Cancelled Engagements

An Aso Rock insider confirmed that Tinubu’s weekly agenda had been cleared to allow his doctors to assess his health. Despite the President’s lack of public appearances, the Presidency continues to issue press releases attributed to him. One such statement released on August 6 announced a healthcare initiative for low-income retirees and an increase in pensions. The accompanying photo showed Tinubu with PenCom Director-General Omolola Oloworaran, but it was later confirmed that the meeting took place days earlier at his private residence.

When contacted, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, insisted Tinubu is “healthy and working,” adding, “He was in his office yesterday (August 5). I saw him myself.”

Last Public Appearance Was on August 1

President Tinubu was last seen publicly on Friday, August 1, at the Progressive Media Summit in Abuja, where he addressed the role of digital media in national development. Before that, on July 29, he led a reception for the Super Falcons following their WAFCON victory, where he stood for an extended period to congratulate the team.

However, his absence at a similar event for Nigeria’s D’Tigress basketball team on August 3 raised further eyebrows. Vice President Shettima stood in his place, prompting speculation about Tinubu’s condition.

Presidency Denies Postponement is Health-Related

The weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting also failed to hold this week. While the Information Minister had previously indicated that it would take place on August 6, no ministers were seen around the Presidential Villa at the usual hours. Onanuga later confirmed the session was postponed by the President, stating, “It’s not an issue. FEC meetings don’t have a fixed schedule.”

He dismissed the health concerns, saying, “Why must he attend all functions? He has a deputy. He can delegate. Do you want him to be doing public parade or something?”

Uncertainty Surrounds NNPC GCEO Amid Tinubu’s Silence

President Tinubu’s continued silence is also raising questions about leadership at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). Bayo Ojulari, appointed Group CEO in April 2025, is rumored to have resigned. Yet, the Presidency has made no formal announcement. Sources say Tinubu’s health has stalled any official decision or communication on the matter.

Pattern of Frequent Medical Trips to France Resurfaces

Since taking office in 2023, Tinubu has embarked on several medical and working visits abroad, most frequently to France. These include:

• June 2023: Attended the New Global Financial Pact Summit in Paris (4–5 days)
• January 2024: 14-day private visit to France
• August 2024: Brief 4-day trip to France
• October 2024: Two-week UK working vacation with time in France
• November 2024: 3-day official visit to France at Macron’s invitation
• February 2025: 7–8 day private visit en route to AU Summit in Addis Ababa
• April 2025: Two-week working visit split between France and the UK

Presidency Issues Condolences Over Ghana Tragedy

Despite his absence, the President reportedly called Onanuga on August 6 to issue a condolence message to Ghana after a military plane crash killed several top officials, including Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

“Even today, he called me and said I should release a statement,” Onanuga confirmed. “He was the one who instructed it directly.”

The Presidency continues to maintain that there is no cause for concern, but Tinubu’s continued absence from public life and the hush surrounding critical matters of state are fueling speculation. Nigerians await transparency from Aso Rock amid mounting concerns.