Acting President Yemi Osinbjo and members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Friday received President Muhammad Buhari who returned from medical vacation. But the President would need further rest, meaning that Osinbajo would continue in acting capacity.
Buhari who landed at the Aso Villa helipad on a chopper at 8.36 a.m. was also welcomed by some members of the Federal Executive Council. His return has sparked celebration among Nigerians on social media and on the streets. From Maiduguri to Gombe, Lagos to Delta, pockets of Nigerians expressed their joy at the return of the President.
Mr. Tunde Sofola, a transporter in Lagos said he was happy that God has disappointed those who wished the President death but he cautioned that officials of government should always tell the true state of any functionary to avoid speculation.
At a reception held for the President, he thanked Nigerians for their prayers and support in spite of the hardships in the country.
He promised to rededicate himself to serving Nigerians.
“I am feeling much better now, there may, however, be need to have further follow-ups within some weeks. Rather than sending delegation upon delegation to Abuja to welcome me, may I appeal to all Nigerians to continue to pray for our country’s unity, progress and prosperity.”
Earlier, Osinbajo thanked Buhari for giving him the opportunity to serve and entrusting the nation in his care. The presidential plane that brought him from London earlier landed at the Nigeria Air Force base Kaduna at about 7.47 a.m.
The president was received on arrival at the villa by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, cabinet ministers, service chiefs and Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Idris.
Others included Gov. Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara and top government functionaries.
The President also met with members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Buhari left the country on Jan. 19 on a 10-day vacation which he said he would also use to have a medical check-up.
Kogi state governor receive Buhari at the Villa on Friday.
The leave was later extended, based on a medical advice by his doctors, who said they needed to carry out further tests on him.
The president’s jet landed at the VIP Wing of 401 Training School of Nigeria Air Force , Kaduna, at 7.40 a.m. where he was received by the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Mr Barnabas Yusuf Bala.
The president was later flown by a presidential helicopter to Abuja.
Mr Femi Adesina, the President’s Senior Special Adviser, Media and Publicity confirmed on Thursday that the president would return after his 49-day vacation, which has raised controversies.
The president left the country on Jan. 19 when he asked for 10 days medical leave from the Senate.
