President Muhammadu Buhari was absent at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Wednesday for the third consecutive time.
The meeting, which started at 11, was presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
It started with the national anthem, followed by prayers by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, and Minister of Budget and Planning, Udo Udoma.
Buhari’s spokesmen, Femi Adesina and Garba Shehu, as well as the president’s personal photographer, Bayo Omoboriowo, had arrived earlier in expectation of their boss’ attendance.
That was not to be as Osinbajo and the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, arrived the council chambers of the Presidential Villa at 10:59am and the meeting started thereafter.
Buhari’s absence at the meeting raises further concerns about his health despite claim by the Presidency that he is able to work from home.
The president on Tuesday reportedly met with the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Maikanti Baru.
His wife, Aisha Buhari, also said in a series of tweets that his heath was not as bad as being perceived.
Buhari was absent at the FEC meeting on April 12 and 26.
The meeting of April 19 did not hold following the Presidency’s claim that the Easter holidays prevented staff from preparing for it.
