By Ayo Ayodele
The Presidency has dismissed reports suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was unwell during an official engagement in Türkiye, insisting that the President remains “hale and hearty” and is proceeding with his state visit as scheduled.
The clarification followed a viral report alleging that President Tinubu staggered while inspecting a parade during a stately welcome ceremony in Ankara.
In an update posted on his verified X handle on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr Sunday Dare, said the President was in “great shape” and had continued with his official programme without interruption.
According to Dare, President Tinubu, after the welcome ceremony, proceeded to scheduled bilateral meetings with the President of Türkiye and other senior government officials from both countries. The engagements, he said, are aimed at deepening diplomatic relations and expanding cooperation across key strategic sectors.
Areas of focus include defence and security, trade and investment, energy, and broader economic development.
Also addressing enquiries on the President’s wellbeing, Presidential Spokesperson Mr Bayo Onanuga explained that the moment captured on video was the result of a minor misstep, not a health issue.
“The President stepped on a metal 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.”
The Presidency reiterated that President Tinubu remains fully engaged in his official duties and that the state visit to Türkiye is progressing smoothly.