Buhari returns to work on Monday

President Muhammadu Buhari will return to work on Monday according to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity - Femi Adesina.

Nigerians at home and abroad have reacted with excitement to this morning's return of Buhari to the country following almost 50 days of medical leave in the United Kingdom.

The aircraft which conveyed the President from the United Kingdom touched down just before 8am at the Nigeria Airforce Base in Kaduna, from where he proceeded to Abuja via a helicopter. Buhari, dressed in a Black Kaftan, was unable to fly directly into the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja following its recent closure for six weeks to carry out essential maintenance work.

Buhari left Abuja on January 19 for 10 days of treatment in the United Kingdom but extended his stay on the advice of doctors. There have been no official details of the President's illness.

Before proceeding on medical leave, Buhari transferred power to Vice President - Prof. Yemi Osinbajo in accordance with the Constitution, enabling Osinbajo to hold fort as Acting President.

This temporary handover was a sharp contrast to the refusal to transfer power and resulting secrecy and confusion that surrounded the illness of the late President Umaru Yar'Adua, who died in 2010 after a period of medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.

At press time, Presidential Spokesman - Femi Adesina said Buhari had breakfast in the Presidential residence and was meeting and having private time with his family - after a welcome ceremony where he met Ministers and other Officials.

Buhari is expected to "transmit" a letter to the National Assembly - informing the Parliament of his intention to resume work. Adesina said he will resume officially on Monday.