President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Abuja for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, the lesser Islamic pilgrimage, and pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.
The President’s trip was announced by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
According to the statement, the visit will provide Tinubu with an opportunity for spiritual reflection and devotion as he seeks Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its citizens.
During his stay in Makkah, the President will perform the religious rites associated with Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage that Muslims can undertake at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during a specific period in the Islamic calendar.
Before departing Abuja, Tinubu was scheduled to commission newly acquired equipment for the Nigerian Air Force at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Notably, the equipment commissioning formed part of the President’s engagements before his departure for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Presidency said Tinubu would return to Nigeria next week after completing the spiritual exercise.
The announcement comes as the administration continues to address national issues, including security, economic challenges and efforts to strengthen unity across the country.
However, the Presidency’s statement focused on the spiritual purpose of the visit, with particular emphasis on prayers for national stability, peace and progress.
The President’s planned return next week is expected to mark the end of the pilgrimage before he resumes his engagements in Nigeria.
By Musekir Faisat OmolaraÂ
