Tinubu’s vacation: Peter Obi questions President’s priorities

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has questioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priorities after the President left Nigeria for another three-week holiday in Europe amid worsening insecurity and economic hardship.

In a statement posted on his official social media page on Monday, Obi criticised the President’s decision to travel abroad while Nigerians continue to face difficulties.

Obi also referred to reports that about 600 Nigerians, mostly women, children and elderly people, were abducted during Juma’at prayers in Niger State.

According to Obi, government expenditure on presidential trips and related travel expenses between June 2023 and April 2026 amounted to about N37.64 billion, while Tinubu reportedly spent approximately 261 days outside Nigeria during the period.

He further claimed that only N36 million was released to the Federal Ministry of Health in 2025 despite a capital allocation of N218 billion.

Obi said the reported figures raised concerns about the government’s priorities at a time when Nigerians were struggling with serious challenges.

“Leadership is about priorities,” he said.

The presidential candidate argued that the President should focus more on addressing insecurity, healthcare, education and the economic difficulties facing Nigerians rather than repeatedly leaving the country.

Obi also called for greater patronage of tourist destinations across Nigeria, saying the President should help promote domestic tourism by travelling to different parts of the country.

He said increased domestic tourism could create jobs and support businesses in the hospitality, transportation, agriculture, entertainment and other sectors.

“We deserve leadership that puts Nigeria first, leadership that cares and plans for a better Nigeria,” Obi said.

He said this was the kind of leadership he and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would bring through their political partnership.