President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commenced a significant tour of three Nigerian states, touching down first in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Arrival and Tight Security in Borno
The presidential aircraft landed at the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri at precisely 12:58 pm. This followed a departure from Abuja's Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 11:45 am the same day. His visit marks the start of an itinerary that will also take him to Bauchi and Lagos States.
Ahead of his arrival, security was massively heightened across Maiduguri. The Borno State Police Command deployed tactical teams, surveillance operatives, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal units to ensure safety. Personnel from the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were also positioned along major routes and project sites.
Controversial Presidential Aircraft
Notably, the President traveled aboard a 20-year-old Boeing 737 Business Jet with the tail number 5N-FGT. This aircraft was originally acquired in 2005 during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The jet had been listed for sale by the Federal Government in July 2025 as part of cost-cutting measures. However, it was later delisted after attracting what presidency sources called "unacceptable low offers." Prospective buyers reportedly quoted prices as low as $10 million, far below the government's valuation.
Official Engagements and Personal Commitments
According to a statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu's first official duty in Maiduguri is the inauguration of several projects. These projects were executed by the administration of Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum in collaboration with the Federal Government. One key project slated for commissioning is the upgraded international airport.
Beyond official functions, the President's schedule includes personal and festive engagements. In Maiduguri, he is expected to attend the wedding fatiha of Sadeeq Sheriff, the son of former Borno State Governor and Senator, Ali Modu Sheriff. The ceremony will be held at the Maiduguri Central Mosque within the Shehu of Borno's palace.
From Borno, President Tinubu will proceed to Bauchi State on a condolence visit. He will meet with the state government and the family of the late revered Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, who passed away on November 27 at the age of 101.
The tour will conclude in Lagos State, where the President will spend the Christmas and New Year holidays. A major highlight in Lagos will be his role as the Guest of Honour at the Eyo Festival scheduled for December 27 at the Tafawa Balewa Square. This year's festival will honour prominent figures, including Tinubu's late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, and former Lagos State governors Alhaji Lateef Jakande and Chief Michael Otedola.
Eyewitnesses reported that a large crowd gathered along major roads in Maiduguri to welcome the President as his convoy moved from the airport into the city center.
