President Bola Tinubu has departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Abuja after completing the Umrah, also known as the Lesser Hajj, in the holy city of Makkah.
The President’s aircraft took off from the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport at approximately 5:13 p.m. Saudi Arabian time (3:13 p.m. Nigerian time) on Wednesday.
The Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo; and Consul-General, Muazam Ibrahim Nayaya, accompanied Tinubu to the airport.
Before his departure, the President held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.
Tinubu arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday and led members of the Nigerian delegation in performing the Umrah rites, including the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’abah.
On Sunday, the President was granted special access to the sacred structure, where he and members of his delegation performed two raka’at prayers.
During the visit, Tinubu offered prayers to Almighty Allah for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and prosperity.
He also sought divine guidance, wisdom and strength to continue serving the country, while praying for blessings upon its leaders and citizens.
The President expressed hope that Nigeria’s cultural and religious diversity would remain a source of national strength, unity and shared prosperity.
The visit provided an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and prayers for the country’s future.
Tinubu also 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 and special courtesies extended to him and members of the Nigerian delegation.
He particularly acknowledged the privilege of being granted access to the Holy Ka’abah to offer prayers.
The President’s delegation included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe States; and several ministers and other government officials.
Tinubu’s departure concludes his latest visit to Saudi Arabia, during which he combined religious observance with prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity and prosperity.