President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has concluded his visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he and members of his delegation entered the Holy Kaaba to pray and performed Umrah.
In a statement issued on Monday, President Tinubu expressed deep gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for extending the rare privilege of entering the Kaaba and for the hospitality shown to the Nigerian delegation. He said the gesture reflected the enduring bonds of faith and friendship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“In those sacred moments, I prayed for peace, unity and prosperity for our dear nation and for all Nigerians,” the President stated.
It remains unclear whether President Tinubu will return directly to Nigeria or travel onwards to France. The uncertainty has renewed public concern among Nigerians about the President’s frequent travels outside the country, particularly to European destinations, for reasons that are often not fully explained. Many citizens have noted that President Tinubu has not represented Nigeria at most major international meetings and summits over the past year, raising questions about the time he spends away from the country.
By John James
