Health Rumours Dismissed: Presidency Insists Tinubu Is ‘Fully Fit’ During UK State Visit

The Nigerian Presidency has hit back at swirling speculations regarding President Bola Tinubu’s health, describing reports that he is physically incapacitated as “baseless and mischievous.”

Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the President is in high spirits and fully capable of handling his official duties. He noted that the President’s active participation in the high-profile State Visit—including a 21-gun salute and a formal banquet at Windsor Castle—proves he is not “indisposed” as claimed by critics online.

The Presidency maintained that any assistance seen during the ceremonial walk with King Charles III was a sign of mutual respect and royal protocol, rather than a medical emergency. Officials pointed out that the President is following a rigorous schedule, including a sit-down with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to finalise a £746 million port refurbishment deal.

While Vice President Kashim Shettima has been holding the fort in Abuja, the State House insists this is standard administrative procedure and has nothing to do with the President’s fitness to lead.