President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-state visit covering Borno, Bauchi, and Lagos states, combining official engagements, condolence visits, and cultural appearances as the year draws to a close.
The visit was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, the trip will begin in Borno State, where Tinubu is scheduled to commission several projects executed by the state government under Governor Babagana Zulum, alongside initiatives supported by the Federal Government.
While in Maiduguri, the President will also attend a high-profile wedding ceremony. Tinubu is expected to be present at the wedding of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno State governor and senator, Ali Modu Sheriff, and his bride, Hadiza Kam Salem. The event is expected to draw political leaders, traditional rulers, and dignitaries from across the country.
After concluding activities in Borno, Tinubu will proceed to Bauchi State for a condolence visit following the death of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, a respected Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood. The cleric passed away on November 27, and his death prompted an outpouring of tributes nationwide.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu will meet with the Bauchi State Government and members of the cleric’s family to commiserate with them and acknowledge the late Sheikh’s influence on Islamic scholarship and religious life in Nigeria.
From Bauchi, the President will travel to Lagos State, where he is expected to spend the end-of-year holidays. Lagos will also serve as the venue for several ceremonial and cultural engagements during his stay.
One of the highlights of Tinubu’s Lagos visit will be his appearance as Guest of Honour at the annual Eyo Festival scheduled for December 27. The festival will take place at the Tafawa Balewa Square and is one of the state’s most prominent cultural events.
This year’s Eyo Festival will honour notable figures in Lagos history, including Tinubu’s late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, as well as former Lagos State governors Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola.
The three-state visit blends governance, tradition, and personal engagements, reflecting Tinubu’s continued political ties to the North-East and his long-standing connection to Lagos as the year comes to an end.
