President Bola Tinubu has returned to the capital, Abuja, concluding a 20-day period abroad which included his annual leave. His return was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President had departed Nigeria on December 28, 2025, beginning his trip in Paris before proceeding to Abu Dhabi. A key segment of his time abroad was spent attending the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, held from January 11 to 15.
While at the summit, President Tinubu participated in high-level discussions on climate action and sustainable development.
A significant outcome during the event was the signing of a major trade agreement between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates, aimed at strengthening bilateral economic ties.
nd economic goals.
Building on this engagement, a significant milestone was reached during the 2026 summit when Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This landmark deal aims to substantially strengthen bilateral economic ties and unlock new avenues for trade and investment.
The agreement provides Nigerian exporters with duty-free access to the UAE market for thousands of products, a move expected to boost Nigeria’s non-oil exports and diversify its economy. The partnership is strategically designed to foster deeper economic cooperation and drive mutual growth.
Key areas of collaboration under the agreement include energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and renewable energy.
The partnership also hints at technology transfer, aiming to enhance Nigeria’s industrial and technological capabilities through closer cooperation with Emirati partners.
