President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of his planned Umrah pilgrimage to Makkah, where he intends to pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity and stability.
Tinubu arrived on Thursday evening as part of a visit centred on the Islamic lesser pilgrimage. He is expected to use the religious exercise to seek divine guidance for Nigeria’s continued peace, stability and development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the President received a welcome at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah from Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo, and the Saudi Head of Royal Protocol, Ahmad bin Thafir.
Tinubu Umrah Visit Follows Departure from Abuja
The President departed Abuja through the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. State governors and senior government officials attended a brief send-off ceremony.
Before leaving the country, Tinubu inaugurated five newly acquired Nigerian Air Force helicopters. The aircraft are expected to strengthen military operations against terrorism and other security threats.
According to a statement by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria next week.
The Tinubu Umrah visit comes as the President seeks prayers for the country’s peace, unity and continued development.