As of Today (16th October 2024), both Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are out of the country on separate international engagements.
President Bola Tinubu is currently on an extended overseas trip that combines diplomatic duties with personal time.
Earlier, he had attended international engagements in China and the United Kingdom, addressing crucial issues related to Nigeria’s economy and development.
Following these official duties, Tinubu took a brief leave of absence, which coincided with his ongoing overseas stay. His absence, however, has led to Vice President Shettima stepping into key roles during this period.
On October 16, Vice President Kashim Shettima departed for Sweden on a two-day official visit at the directive of President Tinubu.
Shettima’s mission is to engage in high-level bilateral discussions with Swedish government officials, including Crown Princess Victoria and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson.
9News reports that the Vice President’s trip is centered around expanding collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden in sectors such as ICT, innovation, education, and sustainable transport.
Additionally, Shettima’s visit aims to explore investment opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs, especially in technology.
He will meet with Norrsken, a Stockholm-based venture capital firm, to discuss how Nigerian startups can benefit from their $205 million tech fund.
This is a quest to strengthen Nigeria’s ties with international investors as part of Tinubu’s administration’s broader goal to drive economic reforms and create a more business-friendly environment.
While their simultaneous absence is unusual, both leaders are expected to return shortly, with Vice President Shettima expected back in Nigeria by October 18, 2024.
Their overseas trips reflect ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to enhance the country’s international partnerships and foster economic development.
