President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, an Islamic spiritual exercise, and pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.
The President’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for spiritual reflection and devotion, with prayers for the country’s well-being and development.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the visit will allow Tinubu to seek divine guidance for the country and its people.
“The visit gives the President an opportunity for spiritual reflection, devotion, and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability, and continued progress,” the statement said.
Onanuga said the President would perform the religious rites associated with Umrah during his stay in the Holy City of Makkah.
“While in Makkah, President Tinubu will perform the religious rites associated with Umrah, seeking Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people,” the statement added.
Before departing Abuja, the President is also expected to commission equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force to strengthen its operational capacity.
According to the statement, the commissioning will take place at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The equipment is expected to support the Air Force in carrying out its operational responsibilities, although the statement did not provide further details about the equipment or its specifications.
Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the spiritual exercise.
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during a specific period in the Islamic calendar.