Shettima flies to London on Tinubu’s orders to check on ailing Buhari
Shettima visits ailing Buhari in London
Vice President Kashim Shettima flew to London on Sunday night at President Bola Tinubu’s behest to visit former President Muhammadu Buhari, who is receiving medical treatment in a UK hospital.
Tinubu Directs Shettima to London Amid Health Concerns
Sources revealed that Tinubu, while on a state visit in St. Lucia, received reports suggesting Buhari had been hospitalised in London. Consequently, he instructed VP Shettima, who was in Addis Ababa for Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, to cut short his stay and head to London to assess the former president’s health and deliver presidential goodwill.
Shettima departed Addis Ababa on Sunday, June 29, landing in London on Monday morning. He then spent several hours at the hospital with Buhari, relaying messages of concern and support from Tinubu, and facilitating a phone call between them.
Visit Kept Private, Officially Confirmed as Personal Trip
Shettima’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, confirmed the vice president’s trip to London but emphasized it was a private visit, without revealing the specific purpose.
Despite being kept under wraps, Shettima’s presence in London was later substantiated by multiple sources as a directed effort by the presidency to provide oversight and emotional support.
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Buhari’s Condition: Stable and Recuperating
Following media reports of Buhari in intensive care, his former aide Bashir Ahmad clarified that the 81-year-old was “stable and responding well to treatment,” dismissing rumours of a critical condition.
Ahmad conveyed that the former president, though hospitalised, was on a positive path to recovery, maintaining the confidence of his medical team and loved ones.
Extended Support: Abdulsalami Also Visited
During the visit, Shettima reportedly checked on former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was also recovering in London. The dual visits reflect the government’s continued attention to the wellbeing of its past leaders. Shettima’s what was framed as a “private” trip to London on Tinubu’s directive demonstrates the administration’s commitment to the health of ex-presidents. Buhari’s condition is now reported as stable and improving. The visit also highlights Tinubu’s proactive role in monitoring national icons’ welfare while maintaining discretion in official engagements.
