Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former spokesperson for the President, has stated that the Nigerians who are criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s two-week holiday in the United Kingdom are misinformed.
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Okupe addressed the backlash regarding the President’s decision to vacation abroad rather than remain in Nigeria.
The former Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign remarked, “I have encountered numerous unfounded criticisms of the President’s holiday trip abroad. In my view, it is essential for leaders to occasionally step away from their usual environments, especially during periods of national crisis.”
Okupe further explained that he believes the President’s retreat allows him to distance himself from officials and political allies, thereby creating a conducive environment for reflection on the past 17 months and strategizing for his administration’s future. He emphasized that remaining in Nigeria would not provide the tranquility necessary for such contemplation.
He expressed optimism that upon returning from this retreat, the President would bring positive developments and much-needed relief to the citizens of Nigeria.
NAN notes that President Tinubu left Abuja on October 2 for his trip to the UK, which he plans to use as a working vacation to evaluate his administration’s economic reforms. This marks the first time President Tinubu has taken leave since assuming office in May 2023, although he has undertaken several international trips during his tenure.
