So, President Bola Tinubu stepped out for some fresh air after a month-long retreat, first in France, then in London, and finally, two weeks inside Aso Rock.
His first stop was Katsina, where he ran a textbook case of “killing two birds with one stone.” He met with troops at the frontline and talked security over dinner with state elders and leaders.
He also commissioned a 24-km road and the Katsina Agricultural Mechanised Centre. Then, came the meat of the pie: he made a guest appearance at the wedding ceremony of the governor’s daughter.
The appearance also saw Tinubu praying for the couple, signing what appeared to be a marriage certificate, and taking photos with the new couple and their families.
You see, given the barrage of attacks in some parts of the country while he was away, most Nigerians expected the President to cut short his already-ending trip to Europe and return home.
When he didn’t, some assumed he would fly over Abuja and visit any of the flashpoints – Plateau, Benue, or Borno, to mourn with the survivors.
However, there are expectations and there is reality, just like Nigerians say, “what I ordered versus what I got.”
First, the President will likely visit the affected areas, but only on his own terms and timing. In street lingo: “No be you go tell me wetin I go do.”
Second, Nigerians are still enduring a long-distance relationship with their Presidents. And that could mean that they shouldn’t expect the big man or his deputy to do what others can do on their behalf at the instance of a directive, even when it involves lives.
I remember a Twitter (now X) thread from 2020 in which some Ghanaians complained about their President not addressing them on a matter.
One user replied, “Yours is even better. Go and ask Nigerians; their President doesn’t talk to them that much.” That was 2020. To be fair, one must acknowledge that the current President has been generous with national broadcasts and even offered a media chat last December.
From his meeting with intelligence chiefs two weeks ago, it became clear that the President, before returning from Europe, dispatched the National Security Adviser and other key officials to crawl through the affected states and send real-time feedback.
He also phoned the governors of the affected states, offering condolences and charting a way forward.
All of these were Tinubu’s typical remote work, which he blends with his on-site duties.
So, last Friday in Katsina, the Commander-in-Chief stood before his troops. not to bury the dead, but to cater to the living. It was his second visit to Nigerian soldiers at the frontlines since meeting those attached to the ECOWAS stabilisation force in Guinea-Bissau in early July 2023.
Since assuming office, it is safe to recognise that the President has shown ample appreciation for the military.
This was evident in his insistence on giving the 16 soldiers killed in Okuoma, Delta State, full honours in death in March 2024.
He extended grand gestures to their surviving families, including the unborn.
The President also generously honoured his departed Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who died of natural causes in November 2024.
This contrasted with his predecessor, who, in May 2021, stayed away from the funeral of former Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Attahiru Ibrahim, “because he did not want to inconvenience [Abuja] road users.”
In Katsina, Tinubu assured the soldiers of his support, which, he said, would be evidenced through prioritised welfare.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I am fully aware of the challenges you face. We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced equipment, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support—not only to defend this nation but to dominate and defeat every adversary.
“But it is not just about weapons. Your welfare is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring your families are safe, your allowances are paid promptly, your healthcare is guaranteed, and your dignity is upheld.
“Housing programmes, family support systems, insurance coverage, and improved remuneration are being implemented without delay,” he assured them.
Tinubu described the armed forces as “silent guardians of our democracy,” saying he is “deeply humbled” by their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to peace, security, and the sovereignty of the nation.
“You are the shield of Nigeria, the brave sons and daughters who stand between our people and the forces of terror.
“Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralise, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children,” he affirmed.
He applauded their sacrifices, saying, “Your resilience in the face of danger inspires the entire nation. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
“You have left behind your families and the comforts of civilian life to wear the uniform of honour and duty. You face danger not for wealth or recognition, but for the love of our dear country.
“That, my brothers and sisters in uniform, is the highest form of patriotism… and I salute you.”
Tinubu has since returned to Abuja, while Vice President Kashim Shettima represented him in Libreville, Gabon, at the inauguration of the country’s President-elect, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.
