President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his determination to build a prosperous Nigeria, declaring that his commitment to the country’s development has become stronger following his recent spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia. The President made the declaration after performing Umrah, the lesser Hajj, during which he received special permission to enter the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah […]
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his determination to build a prosperous Nigeria, declaring that his commitment to the country’s development has become stronger following his recent spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia.
The President made the declaration after performing Umrah, the lesser Hajj, during which he received special permission to enter the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah and offer prayers.
According to a statement issued on Monday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for extending the privilege to him and members of his delegation.
He described the opportunity to pray inside the sacred structure as a historic experience, expressing gratitude to the Saudi leadership for the honour and hospitality extended to the Nigerian delegation.
The President also highlighted the green, white and green colours surrounding the Ka’abah, saying they reminded him of Nigeria’s national identity. He described the experience as a reflection of the cordial relationship and longstanding cooperation between both countries.
Speaking about his prayers, Tinubu said he had asked Almighty Allah for wisdom and resilience to enable him to continue serving Nigerians. He expressed his belief that his prayers had been answered.
The President recalled that he had also travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah before the 2023 presidential election, when he prayed for divine blessings and made a commitment to return in gratitude if his requests were granted.
He further referenced Verse 26 of Surah Aal-Imran in the Holy Qur’an, which highlights Allah’s ultimate authority over power and sovereignty. Tinubu said the lesson reinforced the need for leaders to recognise political authority as a trust that must be handled responsibly.
He described his emergence as Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief as a special favour from Almighty Allah, saying the position carried a significant obligation to serve the country and its people.
Reiterating his development agenda, Tinubu said he was more determined to pursue prosperity, strengthen the economy and advance Nigeria’s development with the support of citizens.
On the economy, the President expressed optimism, describing the foundation established by his administration as solid and claiming that the country had moved beyond a difficult economic period.
He also stressed that investing in young Nigerians was essential to the country’s future, questioning how present leaders would be remembered decades from now if they failed to create opportunities for the next generation.
Tinubu maintained that his administration would continue to prioritise economic growth, youth development and an enabling environment that would allow Nigerians to fulfil their potential.
Among those who accompanied the President were Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; and the governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states.
The delegation also included BUA Group Chairman, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Oando Chief Executive Officer, Wale Tinubu, who joined others in expressing appreciation to Allah and the President for the opportunity to enter the Holy Ka’abah and offer prayers.