President Bola Ahmed Tinubu this Wednesday departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Abuja after completing the Umrah (Lesser Hajj) pilgrimage 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.
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 the President to the airport.
Before his departure, Tinubu held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor of Makkah at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.
The President 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, Tinubu was also granted special access to the interior of the Holy Ka’abah on Sunday, where he and members of his delegation performed two raka’at prayers.
While inside the sacred structure, the President offered prayers for lasting peace, security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, while seeking divine guidance, wisdom 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 Presidency described the visit as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and prayers for Nigeria, as well as a reaffirmation of the President’s commitment to building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
Tinubu expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the hospitality and special courtesies extended to him and his delegation, particularly the privilege of entering the Holy Ka’abah to offer prayers.
The President’s delegation included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other officials.
Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Thursday.
