President Bola Tinubu has departed the United Arab Emirates after concluding his participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW), returning to Nigeria following a week of intensive diplomatic and policy engagements focused on climate action, energy transition, and global partnerships.
The President’s departure on Saturday was confirmed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who shared a video on X showing Tinubu leaving his hotel in Abu Dhabi for the journey home.
The annual summit, held from January 11 to 15, 2026, was themed “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go” and brought together world leaders, policymakers, investors, innovators, and civil society actors to advance discussions on sustainable development, renewable energy, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
President Tinubu attended the summit at the invitation of UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, underscoring the growing bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, particularly in green energy and economic cooperation.
During the event, Tinubu delivered Nigeria’s national statement, reaffirming the country’s commitment to balancing climate action with expanded energy access, job creation, and social inclusion. He highlighted key reforms such as the Electricity Act of 2023, which promotes decentralized energy solutions for rural communities, schools, markets, and other underserved areas.
The President also emphasized the role of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, in improving power grid efficiency and accelerating the deployment of sustainable energy systems.
A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the UAE on January 13. The agreement, witnessed by President Tinubu and UAE leaders, is expected to deepen trade relations, attract investment, and enhance cooperation in sustainable sectors.
Tinubu’s Abu Dhabi trip followed his end-of-year visit to Europe, where he engaged with several world leaders, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron. He arrived in the UAE on January 11 and was received by UAE officials alongside members of the Nigerian delegation, including Ministers Atiku Bagudu and Jumoke Oduwole, as well as Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar.
