President Bola Tinubu returned to Nigeria on Saturday after attending the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week alongside members of his cabinet.
During the visit, Nigeria signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates, aimed at strengthening economic ties between both countries. The agreement is designed to expand bilateral trade and investment, encourage technology transfer, and deepen cooperation across critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and renewable energy.
At the summit, President Tinubu also announced plans for a joint Nigeria–UAE INVESTOPIA scheduled to hold in Lagos in February. The initiative is intended to attract global investors and position Nigeria as a key destination for international capital.
The president further disclosed Nigeria’s ambition to mobilise up to 30 billion dollars annually in climate and green industrial financing. This funding is expected to support the country’s energy transition reforms while accelerating efforts to expand electricity access nationwide.
Tinubu’s return comes amid criticism from some Nigerians over his time spent outside the country. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised concerns about what he described as a lack of leadership presence at a time of worsening socio-economic conditions, calling the situation a national emergency.
The presidency, however, maintains that the Abu Dhabi visit was strategic, focusing on securing long-term economic partnerships, climate finance, and investment opportunities capable of supporting Nigeria’s development goals.
