Tinubu Completes Lesser Hajj, Departs Saudi Arabia For Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Abuja after completing the Umrah, also known as the Lesser Hajj, in the holy city of Makkah.

The presidential aircraft reportedly took off from the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport at 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.

According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu held a brief meeting with the Makkah deputy governor at the Royal Guest Palace before leaving the country.

During his visit, the President performed the religious rites associated with Umrah, including the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’abah. He and members of his delegation were also granted access to the interior of the sacred structure on Sunday, where they performed two raka’at prayers.

While inside the Ka’abah, Tinubu offered prayers for lasting peace, security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria. He also sought divine guidance and strength to continue leading the country.

The President further prayed for continued blessings upon Nigeria and its citizens, expressing hope that the country’s diversity would become a foundation for national unity, cohesion and shared prosperity.

Tinubu also expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their hospitality and for granting him and his delegation access to the Holy Ka’abah.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the President’s departure marked the conclusion of his religious visit to Saudi Arabia, during which he combined the performance of Umrah with prayers for Nigeria’s peace, stability and development.