Mirian Gom 
President Tinubu ad Vice President Shittima
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria is without both its President and Vice-President as Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima remain abroad, raising concerns about governance continuity at a time of mounting security and economic pressures.
Vice-President Shettima arrives in Conakry on Friday to represent President Tinubu at the inauguration of Guinea’s President-elect, Mamady Doumbouya. The trip coincides with Tinubu’s continued stay outside Nigeria for more than a week, with no public confirmation of a formal transfer of presidential authority.
In a statement, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, in the Office of the Vice-President, confirms that Shettima is received by senior Guinean officials and members of Nigeria’s diplomatic corps ahead of Saturday’s ceremony at the GLC Stadium, Nongo.
Nkwocha says Doumbouya’s inauguration follows his victory in Guinea’s December 2025 elections, ending a four-year military transition. He adds that Shettima’s attendance reflects Nigeria’s leadership role within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Attendance at the inauguration demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to the restoration of constitutional order across the sub-region,” Nkwocha says.
However, analysts say the simultaneous absence of both leaders creates troubling optics, particularly amid persistent insecurity, economic strain and political anxiety. There is no official disclosure that presidential powers were transferred before Shettima’s departure.
Nkwocha insists the visit aligns with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, positioning Nigeria as a stabilising force in West Africa while advancing economic cooperation with Guinea.
Still, governance experts warn that even a symbolic leadership vacuum can heighten public unease and erode confidence in state capacity. As Africa’s most populous nation grapples with terrorism, inflation and social tension, they argue that transparency around succession and authority remains critical.
About the Author
Korede Abdullah 
Oluwafunbi Bello