President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Paris, France, for Nigeria, ending his extended working vacation in Europe.

The President’s departure comes amid renewed public discussion over his prolonged stay in France after African Action Congress presidential candidate and political activist Omoyele Sowore alleged that Tinubu was receiving medical treatment in a French hospital.

Sowore made the allegation during an appearance on ARISE TV on Monday, claiming that the President’s extended stay in France was connected to his health. However, he did not present publicly verifiable medical evidence to substantiate the claim.

The Presidency has rejected speculation over Tinubu’s health. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu was “hale and hearty” and described his stay in France as part of a working vacation.

The Presidency had earlier stated that Tinubu remained engaged with official matters while abroad. He travelled to Europe on August 30, initially stopping in London before proceeding to Paris, where he held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.

During his stay in Paris, Tinubu also participated in the signing of agreements involving the Ogun State Government and DP World for the development of the Gateway Deep Seaport and the Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone.

The Presidency had initially announced that Tinubu would return to Nigeria after a three-week vacation but later extended his stay by a few days. The latest schedule placed his return on Tuesday, September 29.

His prolonged absence from Nigeria, including his non-attendance at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, had generated political debate. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Nigeria at the UN General Assembly.

Tinubu is expected to arrive in Lagos and participate in activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1 before returning to Abuja.

The President’s return also comes as the controversy over his health and extended stay abroad continues to attract public attention, with the Presidency maintaining that he was on official working vacation and had continued directing government affairs from Europe.