AWC Statehouse Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Lagos for Europe on December 28, 2025, marking the beginning of a brief end-of-year break that includes a critical diplomatic engagement at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) scheduled for early January, the Nigerian Presidency has confirmed.
The President’s itinerary, announced by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, indicates that Tinubu will participate in the annual global summit in the United Arab Emirates convened under the theme “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, which runs from January 11–15, 2026. The summit brings together global leaders from government, business, civil society, and innovation sectors to chart pathways for sustainable economic development, climate action, and technological progress.
Diplomacy Meets Sustainability
Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) is widely regarded as a premier international forum on sustainable development. It features high-level dialogues, investment summits, and collaborative platforms focused on energy transition, water security, climate finance, and innovation—critical areas that align with Nigeria’s long-term developmental aspirations.
Tinubu’s attendance on the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, places Nigeria in the spotlight among global partners committed to synergising sustainable investment, economic reforms, and climate action. Summit sessions will also include the prestigious Zayed Sustainability Prize Ceremony, global climate finance meetings, and events aimed at empowering youth and women in sustainability sectors.
Strategic Goals and Expected Outcomes
While at ADSW 2026, President Tinubu is expected to deepen Nigeria’s engagement with multilateral partners, attract foreign direct investment, and showcase the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda—which emphasises economic reform, renewable energy adoption, and inclusive growth. Reports from past editions show that the event attracts tens of thousands of participants and institutional investors committed to sustainable development goals.
Analysts say Tinubu’s participation signals Nigeria’s intent to assert a stronger voice in global discussions on sustainability and economic transformation, even as the nation manages pressing domestic priorities. Nigerian diaspora groups in Europe have already welcomed the President’s presence abroad, describing it as a source of pride and confidence for Nigerians living on the continent and globally.
Return After Summit
After the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi engagement, the Presidency confirmed that President Tinubu will return directly to Nigeria, bringing to a close a mix of personal rest and official duty that dovetails into the administration’s global outreach efforts for 2026.
As the world converges on Abu Dhabi to address shared challenges and unlock sustainable solutions for the future, Nigeria’s participation reflects a growing commitment to international cooperation, climate ambition, and economic transformation.
