Tinubu Stumbles in Ankara, Presidency Confirms He’s in ‘Great Shape’

Viral video shows Nigerian President losing balance during official welcome in Turkey; officials say programme continued smoothly.

A brief stumble by President Bola Tinubu during an official welcome ceremony in Ankara, Turkey, has sparked online attention, but the Presidency insists the Nigerian leader remains in “great shape.”

The incident occurred as Tinubu walked alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the start of his state visit. In a video that circulated widely on social media, the president appeared to miss a step, momentarily losing his balance. Nearby officials quickly assisted him, and he resumed walking without further incident.

Despite the brief misstep, the programme continued as scheduled, including bilateral meetings with senior Turkish government officials.

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, confirmed that Tinubu was unharmed and proceeding with official duties. Meanwhile, Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, reassured the public on X, stating:

“President Tinubu, after a stately welcome ceremony in Ankara, proceeded to scheduled bilateral meetings with the President of Turkey and other senior government officials from both countries. He is in great shape, and the state visit is proceeding smoothly.”

The visit marks part of ongoing diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and Turkey, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and economic cooperation.