Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu is reportedly “in great shape” despite a minor stumble during an official reception in Ankara, Turkey, one of his aides has confirmed.
The 73-year-old president was being welcomed by his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, when he stumbled while walking past a line of soldiers and dignitaries. Official video footage on the Turkish president’s social media shows Tinubu briefly losing balance before being assisted, and later standing next to Erdogan during the ceremony.
Aide Sunday Dare said the president was unharmed and proceeded with a scheduled bilateral meeting with Turkish officials.
What Happened?
According to Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president stepped on a metal object on the floor, which caused him to lose his balance.
“This is not a big deal, except for those who want to make mischief out of a fleeting incident. It was a mere stumble, thank God, not a fall,” Onanuga added.
This is not the first time Tinubu has stumbled in public. In June 2024, he experienced a similar minor incident, which he joked about, comparing it to a popular dance move. At that time, leading figures, including opposition politician Atiku Abubakar, expressed sympathy.
Tinubu’s Visit to Turkey
President Tinubu’s state visit to Turkey aims to strengthen bilateral relations. During the trip, the two countries signed new economic, trade, and defence agreements.
At a joint press conference, Erdogan highlighted plans for increased bilateral trade, targeting $5 billion, while both nations agreed to enhance defence cooperation, including support in counter-terrorism, military training, and intelligence sharing.
Tinubu later posted on social media:
“Nigeria remains open for serious partnership. Open to trade without barriers. Open to ideas, skills, and investment that create value and shared prosperity.”
The president took office in 2023, after defeating Atiku Abubakar in the general elections.
