A Step Out of Place: Presidency Blames "Poorly Laid Carpet" for Tinubu’s Stumble in Ankara as Bilateral Talks Proceed



​-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

ANKARA, TURKEY — The Nigerian Presidency has moved to clear the air following a viral video showing President Bola Tinubu losing his footing during an official state welcome in Turkey. Officials have attributed the brief mishap to a technical flaw in the ceremonial setup—specifically a "poorly laid blue carpet" and a metal object on the floor.

​The Incident

​The moment occurred on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, during a high-profile ceremonial reception at the Presidential Complex in Ankara. While performing a march-past alongside his host, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President Tinubu appeared to miss his step, resulting in a brief stumble.

​Security personnel and aides were quick to assist the President, who regained his balance within seconds. Despite the brief interruption, the ceremonial proceedings continued without further delay.

​The Official Response

​Aides were swift to reassure the public that the President is in "great shape" and that the incident was purely environmental rather than medical.

  • ​Dada Olusegun, Special Assistant on Social Media, noted on X: "Mr. President missed his step very briefly and has continued his bilateral meetings with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. A live press conference is happening immediately after."
  • ​Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, clarified that the President stepped on a metal object on the floor, adding, "This is not a big deal, except for those who want to make mischief out of a fleeting incident."
  • ​Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, emphasized that the President remains "hale and hearty," proceeding directly from the parade to strategic diplomatic discussions.

​Diplomatic Agenda Unchanged

​The stumble has not slowed down the President’s itinerary. Following the reception, the Nigerian delegation entered deep-dive bilateral talks aimed at strengthening ties in security, energy, and education. The visit, which is a reciprocal engagement following President Erdoğan’s 2021 visit to Nigeria, is expected to culminate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and a joint business forum.

​Note: The Presidency has urged the public to disregard "exaggerated interpretations" of the event, stressing that the President is fully engaged in his duties.

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