By Ibrahim Muhammad Nura
The recent return of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu from yet another trip to Paris should prompt serious reflection—not just within the corridors of power, but among all Nigerians. At a time when the nation is groaning under economic hardship, insecurity, and a growing sense of hopelessness, our President’s extended absences raise uncomfortable but necessary questions.
It is not wrong for a president to travel. In fact, diplomacy is part of leadership. But when a leader is away too often, especially when people are crying out for help, it becomes more than just a travel itinerary—it becomes a symbol of disconnect.
Reports say President Tinubu has visited Paris six times, spending a total of 51 days and costing the country over N630 million in aviation fuel for just his latest 14-day trip. The figures are staggering. And yet, what can Nigerians point to as the benefit of these expensive journeys?
Back home, the naira is in free fall. Citizens are overburdened by taxes, prices of goods have doubled, and insecurity is escalating in every region. We are not just talking statistics here—we are talking about real people struggling to survive, farmers who can’t go to their farms, children missing school, and families broken by kidnappings and attacks.
In such trying times, the leader of the nation should be leading visibly, not remotely. Nigeria needs hands-on governance, not just handshakes abroad.
This is not a call for isolationism. It is a call for balance. Diplomacy abroad is important—but it should not overshadow the duty to govern at home. Frequent, costly trips, without clear communication of purpose or results, erode public trust and worsen the perception that the government is out of touch with the people’s pain.
President Tinubu must understand that now is the time to stay home, to listen, to act decisively, and to inspire confidence. The optics of leadership matter. Nigerians need to see their president—on the ground, addressing crises, speaking to the people, and providing solutions.
In times of distress, leadership must be present, transparent, and accountable. Anything less is a betrayal of the social contract.
ibrahimmnura246@gmail.com
