Nigeria’s president-elect, Bola Tinubu, has dismissed rumours about his well-being and stated that he is ready to serve. Tinubu returned to the country on Monday afternoon after spending one month abroad. The former Lagos governor received a warm welcome from a crowd of supporters at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, the country’s capital.

Tinubu had traveled out of the country after the March 18 governorship election. On March 22, his media aide, Tunde Rahman, stated that Tinubu had departed Lagos for Paris to rest, prepare for lesser hajj in Saudi Arabia, and observe Ramadan fasting. However, this trip sparked speculation and controversy about Tinubu’s health status.

Speaking shortly after his return to the country, Tinubu urged Nigerians to disregard reports from rumour mills, asserting that he is “very strong”.

“I’m happy to be back. I have rested, I’m refreshed and I’m ready for the task ahead,” the former Lagos governor was quoted in a statement by Rahman.

“Forget about what the rumour mill may have told you. I’m strong, very strong.”

The president-elect has stated that he has been engaging in consultations for the purpose of assembling a formidable team in preparation for his inauguration on May 29. Tinubu is set to be sworn in as Nigeria’s president, succeeding President Muhammadu Buhari, who will have completed two terms totaling eight years in office.