Tinubu Returns To Abuja After Completing Umrah In Saudi Arabia

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Abuja after successfully performing the Umrah (Lesser Hajj) in the holy city of Makkah.

The President’s aircraft took off from the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at exactly 5:13 p.m. Saudi time.

Tinubu was accompanied to the airport by the Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo; and the Consul-General, Muazam Ibrahim Nayaya.

Before his departure, the President held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor of Makkah at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.

Tinubu had arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday and subsequently led members of the Nigerian delegation in performing the Umrah rites, including the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’abah.

During the visit, the President was also granted the rare privilege of entering the sacred structure on Sunday, where he and members of his delegation observed two raka’at prayers.

While inside the Holy Ka’abah, Tinubu offered special prayers for lasting peace, security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, seeking divine wisdom, guidance and strength to continue serving the country.

He also prayed for continued blessings upon Nigeria, its leaders and citizens, expressing hope that the country’s diversity would become a source of national strength, cohesion and shared prosperity.

The President described the visit as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and prayers for the country, while reaffirming his commitment to building a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria.

Tinubu expressed appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation, particularly the special privilege of accessing the Holy Ka’abah.

He departed Saudi Arabia with renewed faith and gratitude to Almighty Allah, while reiterating his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and the aspiration of building a better Nigeria for all.

Members of the President’s entourage included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe States, among other officials.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, disclosed the President’s departure in a statement on Wednesday.