Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Performing Umrah Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after completing the Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

His aircraft landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, where he was received by senior government officials.

Those at the airport to welcome the President included his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa; the Minister of State for Defence; the Inspector-General of Police; and other government officials.

Tinubu departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at 5:13 p.m. Saudi time after completing the lesser Hajj in Makkah.

Before leaving Saudi Arabia, the President held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.

During the visit, Tinubu led members of the Nigerian delegation in performing the Umrah rites, including the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’abah.

He was also granted access to the interior of the Holy Ka’abah on Sunday, where he and members of his delegation performed two raka’at prayers.

According to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu prayed for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and prosperity. He also sought divine guidance and wisdom for the country’s leaders.

Members of the President’s entourage included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe States, among other officials.

The President’s return marks the end of his latest religious visit to Saudi Arabia.