President-Tinubu's-Return-Amidst-Economic-Hardship:-Analyzing-the-Effects-of-Leadership-Absence-and-expectations

President Tinubu's Return Amidst Economic Hardship: Analyzing the Effects of Leadership Absence and expectations 

By Wisdom Tide.                        October 20, 2025

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after an extended work leave abroad, leaving many Nigerians to grapple with mounting economic challenges in his absence. His return comes at a time when hunger, poverty, and public discontent continue to escalate under the current administration.

The President's Absence: Timing and Perception

President Tinubu left Nigeria on October 2, 2024, for a two-week working leave in the United Kingdom. However, during this period, he also traveled to France for what was described by his Senior Special Assistant, Ibrahim Masari, as “another important engagement.” His absence from the country, coupled with the simultaneous absence of Vice President Kashim Shettima, has sparked outrage, as both leaders were out of the country at a time of deepening economic crisis.

This move has been heavily criticized by political analysts and concerned citizens, who see it as a demonstration of detachment from the realities faced by the majority of Nigerians. Critics argue that the absence of both the President and his Vice in the midst of such economic turmoil reflects poor leadership judgment and further alienates the struggling population from those in power.

Impact of Leadership Absence Amid Economic Hardship

The economic hardship that has gripped the nation can be traced to a series of government policies, particularly those implemented by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). With inflation soaring, food prices doubling, and unemployment rates reaching historic highs, the absence of decisive leadership during such a period of crisis has intensified public dissatisfaction.

Nigerians have borne the brunt of policy failures, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the depreciation of the national currency. These actions have led to a sharp increase in the cost of living, plunging millions further into poverty. The departure of the President and Vice President during this critical time has left citizens feeling abandoned, amplifying the sense of hopelessness that many already face.

Expectations of the Poor Masses Upon the President's Return

As President Tinubu arrives back in Abuja, expectations are high among the poor masses who have suffered the most from the country’s worsening economic conditions. Citizens are calling for immediate policy changes and relief measures to alleviate their suffering. Some of the key expectations include:

1. Immediate Action on Inflation and Rising Costs: With food prices and the cost of basic goods out of reach for many, the populace expects urgent measures to stabilize the economy and bring down inflation.

2. Restoration of Fuel Subsidies or Alternative Relief: The removal of fuel subsidies has been a major factor in escalating living costs. Citizens demand either the restoration of subsidies or the introduction of more comprehensive social welfare programs.

3. Job Creation and Support for Small Businesses: Unemployment has skyrocketed, and many small businesses are struggling to survive. Nigerians expect the government to provide economic stimulus packages and create jobs, particularly for young people.

4. Transparency and Accountability: The public is growing increasingly wary of the government's lack of transparency regarding its foreign engagements and policies. Nigerians demand more accountability from the President, particularly when it comes to explaining how international trips and meetings benefit the nation.

The Consequences of Leadership Disconnect

The simultaneous absence of both President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima sends a troubling message to the Nigerian populace. In a nation already grappling with economic mismanagement, the leadership vacuum further diminishes public trust in the administration’s ability to address the country’s challenges. Citizens expect leaders to be present, proactive, and responsive during times of crisis. The absence of the country’s top leaders during such a critical juncture exacerbates feelings of neglect and deepens the divide between the government and the people.

In conclusion, President Tinubu's return to Nigeria marks a critical juncture in his administration’s handling of the ongoing economic crisis. The poor masses are looking for immediate and decisive action to address the hardships they face. Whether the President can rise to meet these expectations will define the future trajectory of his leadership and the level of public confidence in the government.