President completes spiritual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, receives rare privilege of entering Holy Ka’abah and renews commitment to national development.
ABUJA, NOVEMBER 5, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja following the successful completion of his Umrah pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he offered prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and prosperity.
The President’s aircraft landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at approximately 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
He was received by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu; and other senior government officials.
President Tinubu departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at 5:13 p.m. Saudi time after completing the religious rites of Umrah in the holy city of Makkah.
Before his departure, he held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo, and Consul-General Muazam Ibrahim Nayaya were among the officials who accompanied him to the airport.
RARE PRIVILEGE AT THE HOLY KA’ABAH
A significant highlight of the President’s pilgrimage was the rare privilege granted by the Saudi authorities to enter the interior of the Holy Ka’abah, Islam’s most sacred site.
During the visit, President Tinubu and members of the Nigerian delegation performed two raka’at prayers inside the sacred structure.
According to the State House, the President offered special supplications to Almighty Allah for lasting peace, improved security, national unity and economic prosperity.
He also prayed for divine wisdom, guidance and strength to continue serving the Nigerian people.
The President 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 the Nigerian delegation.
RENEWED COMMITMENT TO NIGERIA
Speaking about the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage, President Tinubu reaffirmed his determination to advance Nigeria’s development and improve the welfare of its citizens.
“My commitment to Project Nigeria is higher. I am determined to usher in prosperity and fully develop the country, consistent with the wish of Allah and the support of the people,” the President declared.
He emphasised the importance of investing in the future of young Nigerians, noting that leadership must ultimately be measured by the opportunities and development secured for succeeding generations.
The President’s pilgrimage also provided an opportunity for reflection on the responsibilities of public office, national cohesion and the importance of faith in leadership.
His delegation included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other officials.
President Tinubu’s return concludes the Saudi visit and marks his resumption of engagements in Abuja as his administration continues implementing its Renewed Hope Agenda.
The State House described the pilgrimage as an occasion for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and renewed dedication to building a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria.
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