iDeemlawful—President Bola Ahmed Tinubu briefly lost his footing during an official reception and inspection of the guard of honour at his ongoing state visit in Ankara, the capital of Turkiye.
The incident happened on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as the Nigerian leader walked alongside Turkish President Recep Erdogan.
Tinubu appeared to miss a step but was promptly supported by officials, who helped him steady himself and continue the ceremony.
The president is in Turkey as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with Nigeria and identify new areas of collaboration.
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During the visit, Tinubu is expected to hold bilateral discussions with his Turkish counterpart, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, focusing on trade, security, investment and regional cooperation.
The programme also includes the signing of several memoranda of understanding between both countries, in addition to other high-level official engagements.
Meanwhile, this marks the second public stumble by President Tinubu since assuming office in 2023. The first occurred during the 2024 Democracy Day celebration at Eagle Square, Abuja, when he slipped while entering an official vehicle but quickly recovered and proceeded with the event.
Reacting afterward, Tinubu played down the incident, describing it as a “swagger” and jokingly attributing it to Yoruba tradition. “I’m a traditional Yoruba boy, I did my dobale,” the president said.