Tinubu departs for Saudi Arabia for Umrah, prays for Nigeria

News, Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage involving religious rites and prayers at the holy city.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the visit will provide Tinubu with an opportunity for spiritual reflection and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.

While in Makkah, the President is expected to perform the rites associated with Umrah and seek Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people.

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Before departing Abuja, Tinubu will commission equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force for its operations at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

The President is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the pilgrimage.

The visit comes as political parties and prospective candidates prepare for the 2027 general elections, in which Tinubu is seeking re-election. Potential opposition contenders include former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).