President Goodluck Jonathan will leave Abuja early Friday on a private visit to Germany, spokesman Reuben Abati said in a terse press statement today.He disclosed that Mr. Jonathan will be accompanied on the trip by some of his principal aides. Analysts speculate that the trip is most likely healthcare-related. Germany is also the preferred destination of his wife, Patience, for medical care.

The President is expected back in Abuja early next week, Mr. Abati said.