Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Saudi Arabia Visit

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

FCT, Abuja -November 4, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja after completing a week-long spiritual visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he performed the Umrah (Lesser Hajj) in the holy city of Makkah.

The President arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at approximately 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, aboard the presidential aircraft, marking the end of his pilgrimage to the Middle Eastern country.

Tinubu was received at the airport by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Minister of Education, the Minister of State for Defence, the Inspector-General of Police and other senior government officials.

Before his departure from Saudi Arabia, the President’s aircraft took off from the Royal Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, at exactly 5:13 p.m. Saudi time.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President had earlier completed the Umrah rites, including the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’abah at the Grand Mosque, Masjid al-Haram.

A major highlight of his pilgrimage was the rare privilege granted to him by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to enter the interior of the Holy Ka’abah, where the President and members of his delegation performed two raka’at prayers.

During the spiritual exercise, Tinubu offered special prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, unity and prosperity, while seeking divine guidance, wisdom and strength to continue leading the country.

The President also expressed appreciation to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation, particularly the privilege of accessing the sacred Islamic structure.

The Merit Newspaper reports that members of the presidential entourage included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other government officials.

Tinubu’s return to Abuja comes as his administration continues to pursue its Renewed Hope Agenda and preparations for the country’s 2027 general elections.