By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to depart Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage involving prayers and other religious rites.

The trip is expected to provide the President with an opportunity for spiritual reflection and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued development.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu will undertake the religious exercise and seek Allah’s guidance and blessings for the country and its citizens.

During his stay in Makkah, the President is expected to observe the rites associated with Umrah, a pilgrimage undertaken by Muslims as an act of worship and devotion.

The visit comes as Nigeria continues to address various national challenges, with the President expected to pray for the country’s progress and the well-being of its people.

Before leaving the country, Tinubu will commission equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force. The commissioning ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The equipment is part of the military’s resources, although the statement did not provide further details about the items to be commissioned or their specific operational capabilities.

Following the ceremony, the President is expected to proceed to Saudi Arabia for the spiritual exercise.

Tinubu is scheduled to return to Nigeria next week after completing the pilgrimage.

The announcement was contained in a statement dated October 28, 2026, and signed by Onanuga.

Umrah, unlike the annual Hajj pilgrimage, can be performed at different times of the year. It involves a series of religious rites in Makkah and is regarded by Muslims as an important act of devotion.

The President’s planned visit will therefore combine his personal religious observance with prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.