By Kingston Magare 27.1.2026
President Bola Tinubu missed a step and fell during a reception held for him by Turkish President Recep Erdogan in Ankara on Tuesday.
Tinubu is in Turkey for an official visit according to Bayo Onanuga, presidential adviser, to strengthen the “existing cordial relations between the two countries and exploring further areas of cooperation in security, education, social development, innovation, and aviation”.
But while walking with his host Tinubu took a tumble on the blue carpet and presidential aides quickly came to his aid to get him back on his feet. They blamed the incident on a not well-laid blue carpet.
“President Tinubu has since resumed his official assignment.
“He is currently in a bilateral meeting with Turkish authorities after which they will address a press conference,” the presidency said.
Tinubu had arrived at the Turkish presidential palace with a black limousine car.
Immediately after Tinubu alighted from the car, the military band played Nigeria’s national anthem, which was followed by the Turkish national anthem.
After the band’s rendition, there was a moment when the Turkish president used his hands to adjust Tinubu’s body to properly face the band.