President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja after spending 20 days outside the country on his annual leave, during which he participated in key international engagements, including the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
The President’s return was confirmed on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement titled “President Tinubu returns to Nigeria after Abu Dhabi trip.”
From Paris to Abu Dhabi
President Tinubu departed Nigeria on December 28, 2025, travelling first to Paris before proceeding to Abu Dhabi, where the sustainability summit held from January 11 to 15, 2026.
This marks the second consecutive year the President has attended the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, reaffirming Nigeria’s active participation in global conversations on climate action, energy transition, and sustainable development.
Nigeria, UAE Sign Landmark Trade Agreement
One of the major highlights of the trip was the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
The agreement, witnessed by President Tinubu and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is aimed at strengthening bilateral economic relations.
It was signed on behalf of Nigeria by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, while UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, signed for the Emirates.
The deal grants duty-free access for thousands of Nigerian products into the UAE market and is expected to:
- Boost bilateral trade and investment
- Enhance technology transfer
- Expand cooperation in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and renewable energy
What the Deal Means for Nigerian Businesses
Speaking after the signing, Dr Oduwole said the agreement would significantly expand global market access for Nigerian exporters.
She added that Nigerian businesses would now be able to establish offices and subsidiaries in the UAE, while business owners would also be eligible to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
Tinubu Announces $30bn Annual Climate Finance Plan
In his address at the summit, President Tinubu disclosed that Nigeria plans to mobilise up to $30 billion annually in climate and green industrial finance to fast-track energy transition reforms and improve electricity access nationwide.
According to him:
- Nigeria’s Climate Investment Platform will mobilise $500 million for climate-resilient infrastructure
- The National Climate Change Fund is targeting a $2 billion capitalisation for climate-focused projects
He also announced that a joint Nigeria–UAE Investopia Summit would hold in Lagos in February, bringing together investors, policymakers, innovators, and business leaders to explore new investment opportunities.
About Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week
The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week is a global annual event convened by the UAE to promote dialogue on sustainability, climate action, and energy transition.
The 2026 edition, themed “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,” focused on integrating finance, technology, energy, and human capital to drive sustainable development worldwide.
President Tinubu has since resumed official duties in Abuja following his return.
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