President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to the country after more than three months in London for medical treatment. His plane – Eagle One – landed at about 4.35pm Saturday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
Prior to his arrival, supporters lined the road to the airport, singing. Buhari’s long absence, his second this year, had created uncertainty in Africa’s most populous country amid some calls for his replacement.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who has been acting president, was on hand at the airport to receive him.
The Presidency has failed to disclose the president’s exact ailment.
The Presidential Spokesman, Mr. Femi Adeshina had said President Muhammadu Buhari will return to the country today after more than three months in London for medical treatment.
A statement Saturday from the office of the Presidency said Buhari will address the nation in a broadcast on Monday morning.
The government has never said what exactly has been ailing the 74-year-old leader. He also spent seven weeks in London for treatment earlier this year and said he had never been so sick in his life.
Saturday’s statement merely calls it a “health challenge.”
Buhari’s long absence have led some to call for his replacement and for the military to remind its personnel to remain loyal.
Nigeria’s ongoing challenges include the deadly Boko Haram insurgency and a weak economy.
- Adapted from AP