By Amofokhai Williams
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday departed Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Abuja after completing the Umrah pilgrimage in the holy city of Makkah, where he offered prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and prosperity.
The President’s aircraft departed the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at exactly 5:13 p.m. Saudi time, according to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu was seen off at the airport by the Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo, and the Consul-General, Ambassador Muazam Ibrahim Nayaya.
Before his departure, the President held a brief meeting with the Makkah Deputy Governor at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.
Tinubu had 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.
In a special moment during the visit, the President was granted access to the sacred interior of the Ka’abah last Sunday, where he and members of his delegation performed two raka’at prayers.
Inside the holy structure, Tinubu offered special supplications to Almighty Allah for lasting peace, security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria.
He also sought divine guidance, wisdom and strength to continue leading the country, while praying for blessings upon Nigeria, its leaders and citizens.
According to the statement, the President expressed hope that Nigeria’s diversity would become a source of national strength, cohesion and shared prosperity.
The visit, Onanuga said, provided an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and prayers for the country, as well as a renewed commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Tinubu 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 extended to him and the Nigerian delegation.
He particularly acknowledged the privilege granted to him to enter the Holy Ka’abah and offer prayers.
The President departed Saudi Arabia with renewed faith and gratitude, while reaffirming his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s aspiration to build a better Nigeria.
Members of the presidential entourage included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other officials.
