Tinubu’s London Trip Sparks Backlash Over Timing Amid Rising Insecurity in Borno
Story: Written by Joseph March 20,2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the United Kingdom has triggered widespread criticism, with many Nigerians questioning the timing as security challenges intensify in parts of the country, particularly Borno State.
The president travelled to the UK for a historic engagement with King Charles III—the first such visit by a Nigerian leader in nearly 40 years. He was accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and several top government officials, arriving in London to a ceremonial استقبال at Windsor Castle.
However, the visit has drawn backlash, especially following deadly bomb attacks in Maiduguri that claimed at least 23 lives and left over 100 injured. Critics argue that the president’s absence—and that of key security officials—during such a crisis reflects poor judgment.
Among those who voiced concern is Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesperson of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who described the trip as ill-timed despite possibly being pre-planned. He stressed that leaders responsible for national security should not be abroad during emergencies, urging the president to return immediately.
Abdullahi also criticised the size of the presidential delegation, noting that officials with direct security responsibilities were seen attending events in London while lives were being lost at home.
Similarly, Mukhtar Adnan, a former Kano State Assembly aspirant, said the trip signals a lack of compassion from leadership. He questioned the inclusion of top security personnel, including the National Security Adviser, in the entourage, insisting that national safety should take precedence over foreign engagements.
On the other hand, security analyst Adamu Bokaji offered a more balanced view, acknowledging that while a president’s presence can boost morale, long-term success in tackling insurgency depends on strong institutions, effective coordination, and sustained strategies.
He described the situation in Borno as delicate, noting that although security forces have recorded gains, insurgents still possess the capability to launch attacks, especially in vulnerable areas.
Other prominent figures, including Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, alongside organisations like Amnesty International, also reacted to the attacks, expressing concern over the deteriorating security landscape.
The ADC, in a statement, urged the federal government to prioritise the protection of lives over diplomatic engagements and called on the president to return and address the crisis directly.
In response, the presidency condemned the attacks, describing them as desperate acts by terrorists under pressure from Nigerian forces. President Tinubu assured citizens that security operations would be intensified and revealed that additional equipment and support had already been approved.
He also directed security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri to oversee operations, while emergency agencies were tasked with caring for the injured.
Vice President Kashim Shettima visited victims of the attack alongside key officials, assuring them of the government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and providing necessary support.
Meanwhile, Borno State Deputy Governor Umaru Kadafur confirmed that calm has returned to the state, urging residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities.
