Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Presidency has dismissed concerns over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s brief stumble during a state visit to Turkey, assuring Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm.
In a statement posted on his verified X handle, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, said President Tinubu remains hale and hearty and has continued with his official engagements as scheduled.
According to Dare, the President moved straight from the ceremonial reception in Ankara to bilateral meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other top government officials.
“President Tinubu, after a stately welcome ceremony in Ankara, proceeded to scheduled bilateral meetings with the President of Türkiye and other senior government officials,” he said.
The meetings, he explained, are focused on strengthening diplomatic ties and expanding cooperation between Nigeria and Turkey in key areas such as defence and security, trade and investment, energy, and broader economic development.
Dare added that the smooth continuation of the visit reflects the growing relationship between both countries and underscores Nigeria’s renewed diplomatic engagement under President Tinubu.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, also addressed enquiries on Tuesday regarding the President’s well-being.
Onanuga clarified that the President did not fall but merely lost his balance momentarily after stepping on an object.
“The President stepped on a metal object on the floor, which made him lose his balance,” Onanuga said.
“This is not a big deal, except for those who want to make mischief out of a fleeting incident. It was a mere stumble—thank God—not a fall.”
The Presidency urged the public to ignore attempts to sensationalise the incident, stressing that President Tinubu remains fit, healthy, and fully engaged in his official duties.
