Nigeria President ‘in Great Shape’ After Falling at Turkey Reception

ANKARA, Turkey — Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reported to be “in great shape” after a brief stumble and fall during an official welcome ceremony in the Turkish capital on Tuesday, aides said, calming concerns about his health as the state visit continues.

The 73-year-old leader, who is on a diplomatic trip to strengthen ties with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, appeared to lose his footing as he walked past a guard of honour and dignitaries at the ceremonial reception in Ankara. A video circulating on social media shows him momentarily falling before being helped back to his feet.

Despite the momentary incident, Tinubu was not injured, senior presidential aide Sunday Dare posted on X, saying the President was able to continue with scheduled bilateral meetings. The visit has proceeded smoothly, and Tinubu also held talks with Turkish officials later in the day.

A spokesman for Tinubu’s office added that the stumble was caused by stepping on an object on the ground — not by any health issue — and described the episode as a minor misstep rather than a serious fall.

The incident echoes a similar public stumble by Tinubu in 2024 that drew light-hearted reaction and sympathy at home. This time, government officials moved quickly to reassure the public that the President remains fit and fully engaged in the state visit, which includes talks aimed at boosting economic and strategic cooperation between Nigeria and Turkey.

As world leaders and diplomatic partners watch closely, aides stressed that Tinubu’s condition is stable, and there is no cause for alarm — underscoring that the state visit and bilateral dialogue will go forward as planned.