President Bola Tinubu has departed Saudi Arabia for Abuja after completing a week-long Umrah pilgrimage in Makkah, where he offered prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and economic prosperity.
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The President’s aircraft departed the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at exactly 5:13 pm Saudi time on Wednesday.
His departure was disclosed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement confirming the conclusion of the President’s religious visit.
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, were among dignitaries who accompanied Tinubu to the airport.
Before boarding his aircraft, the President held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport complex.
Tinubu’s visit, which began last Thursday, featured several religious engagements, including the performance of Umrah rites at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
One of the major highlights of the pilgrimage was the special access granted to the President and members of his delegation to enter the interior of the Holy Ka’abah, following approval by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
During the visit, Tinubu and his delegation offered prayers for Nigeria, seeking divine intervention for lasting peace, improved security, national unity and prosperity.
The President also expressed appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the hospitality and special courtesies extended to him and his delegation, particularly the rare opportunity to enter the Ka’abah.
Speaking after completing his Umrah rites, Tinubu maintained that the future of leadership rested in God’s hands.
“Allah is the only one who can define a human being, what he will be, and what he will become,” he said.
He later reiterated his commitment to national development, declaring that his determination to deliver prosperity under his administration remained strong.
“My commitment to Project Nigeria is higher. I am determined to usher in prosperity and fully develop the country, consistent with the wish of Allah and the support of the people,” the President stated.
Pilgrimage comes amid preparations for 2027 elections
The President’s religious visit has attracted attention because of its timing, coming barely days after he officially launched his re-election campaign in Kaduna on October 24, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With political activities gathering momentum and the election approaching, Tinubu’s return marks the end of his religious engagement in Saudi Arabia as his administration continues to face expectations over security, economic recovery and national development.
His entourage on the return journey included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other government officials.
The President is expected to resume his official engagements in Nigeria following the completion of the pilgrimage.