The Presidency has dismissed health concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu, describing his stumble during a Turkish guard of honor as a minor incident that has not hindered his diplomatic schedule.
The Presidency confirmed Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu is “hale and hearty” after stumbling during a ceremonial march-past in Ankara, Turkiye. Special Adviser Sunday Dare stated that the President proceeded immediately to bilateral meetings with President Recep Erdoğan. Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga clarified that Tinubu merely stepped on a metal object, causing a “minor loss of balance.”
Despite the brief disruption, the state visit remains on schedule, focusing on defense, energy, and trade cooperation. Onanuga urged the public to disregard attempts to “sensationalize” the incident, insisting the President is fully engaged. The visit includes a Nigeria–Türkiye business forum and the signing of several MoUs aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.