Tinubu Embarks On Second Umrah Since Taking Office, Seeks Divine Guidance For Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu departed Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, commonly known as the lesser hajj, and offer prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and progress.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the President’s departure was announced by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement issued on Wednesday. The presidential aircraft, an Airbus A330-200, reportedly took off at approximately 2:20 p.m.

Tinubu was seen off at the airport by several state governors, including AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, Umar Namadi of Jigawa and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State.

Other government officials present at the airport included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico, Reno Omokri, alongside other senior officials.

Onanuga explained that the President’s visit would provide an opportunity for spiritual reflection and prayers for the country and its citizens. During his stay in Makkah, Tinubu is expected to observe the religious rites associated with Umrah while seeking divine guidance and blessings for Nigeria.

The presidential spokesman said the President would pray for the nation’s peace, unity, stability and overall development, as well as the well-being of Nigerians.

Before leaving Abuja, Tinubu commissioned equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

The President is expected to return to Nigeria next week, making the trip his second Umrah pilgrimage since assuming office in May 2023.

Tinubu previously performed the religious rites in November 2023, shortly after attending the Saudi-Africa Summit in Riyadh, where he also sought divine guidance for his leadership and the country’s affairs.