President Bola Tinubu has concluded his visit to Saudi Arabia, expressing gratitude to the kingdom’s leadership for granting him and members of his delegation the rare privilege of entering the Holy Kaaba in Makkah to offer prayers.
Gatekeepers News reports that the President also disclosed that he performed the lesser Hajj, known as Umrah, during the visit, using the spiritual opportunity to pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and prosperity.
Tinubu announced the conclusion of his visit on Monday in a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT.
He described the opportunity to enter Islam’s most sacred shrine and perform the Umrah pilgrimage as a deeply cherished experience, particularly because it allowed him to seek divine blessings for Nigeria and its people.
The President expressed appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for extending the rare privilege to him and members of his delegation.
He also commended the Saudi authorities for the hospitality and brotherly care extended to the Nigerian delegation throughout the visit.
According to Tinubu, the gesture reflects the longstanding religious and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
“It reflects the enduring bonds of faith and friendship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia,” the President stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to Nigeria’s progress and the welfare of its citizens, Tinubu said his prayers during the sacred moments were devoted to securing lasting peace, national unity and prosperity for the country.
“In those sacred moments, I prayed for peace, unity and prosperity for our dear nation and for all Nigerians,” he said.
The visit underscored the longstanding diplomatic, cultural and religious relations between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, built on shared Islamic heritage, mutual respect and cooperation in areas of common interest.
Saudi Arabia remains an important partner to Nigeria in trade, investment and religious affairs. The kingdom is also a major destination for thousands of Nigerian Muslims undertaking the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Tinubu’s visit provided an opportunity to reinforce the relationship between the two countries and reaffirm the importance of continued engagement in advancing their shared interests.
