President Buhari stresses 'unity' in return to Nigeria

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Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday chaired his first cabinet meeting since his return from the UK where he had traveled on medical leave.

Buhari returned to Abuja on August 19 after his lengthy stay in London, but did not report to his office immediately because of reported renovation works.

Last week, he cancelled a meeting with his cabinet, raising concerns that he was returning to his former ways, when he often opted to work from home and missed weekly cabinet meetings.

Nigerian President Mohammadu Buhari walks to the presidential lounge on his return back to the country in Abuja, August 19, 2017. /AFP Photo

The illness for which the president sought medical attention in the UK – the second time he was doing so – has however not been disclosed yet.

While in London, fears had begun mounting over his health status and ability to continue leading Africa’s most populous nation.

In July, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo – who had been left in charge – paid Buhari a visit in London to give an account of the happenings back home.

Since Buhari’s return however, the presidency has been releasing a flurry of photos and statements on his engagements, like meetings with his vice president, heads of the military and economic ministers and the central bank.

This is in contrast to the first time after returning to Abuja from London, when he reduced his working hours and engagements.

In his first speech after returning to Nigeria, Buhari stressed on the need for unity in the West African nation.

“Nigeria’s unity is settled and not negotiable,” he said. “We shall not allow irresponsible elements to start trouble.”