Turkish Officials perplex Nigerian Media Pointed on Tinubu’s Stumble – Dabiri-Erewa
The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has said that Turkish officials were surprised by the level of attention Nigerian media gave to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s minor stumble during his recent visit to Turkey.
Dabiri-Erewa made the remarks while responding to public reactions and media coverage of a short video clip showing the president briefly losing his balance during an official engagement abroad. According to her, the incident was insignificant and did not affect the president’s duties or the success of the visit.
She explained that officials in Turkey were reportedly puzzled that such a minor moment became a major talking point in Nigeria, especially given that President Tinubu continued his engagements without any issue. Dabiri-Erewa described the focus on the incident as unnecessary and distracting from the substance of the visit.
The NiDCOM chairman emphasized that international trips by Nigerian leaders are meant to strengthen diplomatic ties, attract investment, and advance national interests. She noted that President Tinubu’s visit to Turkey focused on bilateral cooperation, economic discussions, and strengthening relations between both countries.
Dabiri-Erewa also urged the media and the public to exercise restraint and responsibility in their coverage of public officials, warning that excessive focus on trivial matters could overshadow important national conversations. She said constructive criticism is important but should not descend into sensationalism.
The brief stumble by the president had gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some expressing concern and others dismissing it as normal and harmless. Presidency sources had earlier maintained that President Tinubu was in good health and remained fully engaged throughout the trip.
As discussions continue online, Dabiri-Erewa reiterated that Nigeria’s image abroad should be protected and that national discourse should prioritize issues that promote development, unity, and progress rather than magnifying minor incidents.
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