President Bola Tinubu has extended his working vacation in Europe by a few days and is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend.

Tinubu departed Nigeria on August 30 for London, where he began the vacation before moving to Paris, France, a week later.

While in Paris, the President held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré, whose business interests include Canal+, MultiChoice and Universal Music Group.

Despite being away from the country, Tinubu has continued to direct the affairs of government and remained in contact with officials in Nigeria.

The Presidency cited his directive for an independent panel to investigate the death of 37 illegal miners in Minna following their detention by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, among other official actions.

During his absence, Vice President Kashim Shettima has represented him at some official engagements. Shettima, who left Abuja on September 20 for New York to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly, is scheduled to deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the gathering.

With Shettima away, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, will continue to represent the President at official events.

On the political front, the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abubakar Yari, has been leading consultations with prominent traditional rulers across the country.

The Presidency also dismissed as irresponsible claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm headed by an ex-convict over Tinubu’s absence from the UN General Assembly.

The statement was issued on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.