President Bola Tinubu has described completing the lesser Hajj (Umrah) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, as a deeply fulfilling spiritual journey and a vital opportunity to pray for Nigeria’s future.
Speaking shortly after finishing the religious rites, President Tinubu highlighted the personal and national significance of the pilgrimage. “It’s a spiritual thing for me and the country, Nigeria. I’m grateful to Allah for this opportunity,” he said.
Reflecting on his return to the holy land—having previously performed Umrah ahead of the 2023 elections—the President noted that the visit carried immense weight. He attributed his ongoing leadership journey to the love of the Nigerian people, a commitment to his duties, and faith in divine providence.
“I believe the love of the people, the commitment to the job, and the physical commitment to it. I believe that Allah’s wish in His court must prevail,” Tinubu said, adding that he offered prayers for peace, harmony, and prosperity across the nation.
The President was accompanied by a high-level delegation whose members also used the sacred trip to seek divine intervention for national unity and smooth electoral processes.
Prominent businessman Abdul Samad Rabiu expressed gratitude for joining the delegation, emphasizing their shared focus on the country’s stability. “We are here in this sacred place to pray for Nigeria, for long-lasting peace, and for unity,” Rabiu said, noting that the group specifically prayed for free, fair, and successful elections.
Tinubu’s media aide, Tunde Rahman, noted that annual pilgrimages have long been a central part of the President’s personal routine. Having accompanied Tinubu on these trips since 2016, Rahman emphasized that seeking guidance in Mecca is a consistent practice, making this pre-election visit especially symbolic.
Echoing these sentiments, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum stressed that national security and harmony remain the country’s most urgent priorities.
“The most important thing is the return of peace and tranquillity to Nigeria,” Zulum stated. “We believe there is nothing better than peace and the unity of our country.”
