Tinubu Says Commitment to Project Nigeria Stronger After Umrah, Ka’abah Visit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to national development and his determination to build a prosperous Nigeria, saying he has sought Allah’s wisdom and resilience to continue serving the country.

The President stated this on Monday, November 2, 2026, while reflecting on his spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, during which he was granted the rare privilege of entering the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah to offer prayers.

Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and members of his Nigerian delegation access to the sacred site.

He described the experience as a historic and deeply cherished spiritual moment, reflecting the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

“I thank the Crown Prince and all the administrators of the holy land. I thank them for the hospitality and recognition given to me as the leader of the delegation and the country,” the President said.

He added: “It is an honour that I enjoyed, and it is gracious of them to have allowed me to enter inside the Ka’abah. This is history.”

Tinubu disclosed that his prayers centred on obtaining wisdom and resilience to continue leading Nigeria, expressing confidence that Allah had granted his supplications.

“Well, I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted,” he said.

The President also reflected on Qur’anic teachings concerning sovereignty and authority, stressing that political power belongs ultimately to Almighty Allah and must be exercised responsibly.

Quoting Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26, Tinubu described leadership as a divine trust that requires humility, accountability and dedication to public service.

“He is the giver and the taker. He owns power and authority. He says, ‘If I give you, use it well. If you don’t use it in accordance with my dictates, I can take it from you and give it to another person,’” he said.

The President said his emergence as Nigeria’s leader was a remarkable blessing that reinforced his obligation to serve the nation with commitment.

“Out of many millions of people, to be the President and Commander-in-Chief is a favour that only Almighty God can do to a human being,” he stated.

Tinubu further declared that his commitment to national development had become stronger, pledging to pursue policies that would promote prosperity, economic growth and opportunities for young Nigerians.

“My commitment to Project Nigeria is higher. I am determined to usher in prosperity and fully develop the country, consistent with the wish of Allah and the support of the people,” he said.

On the economy, the President expressed optimism about the country’s recovery, describing its economic foundation as solid and progress out of a difficult period as encouraging.

“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” Tinubu said.

He also emphasised the importance of investing in young Nigerians, warning that present leadership decisions would shape the country’s future.

“We need to build a future for our youth. If we don’t invest in their future, how do we want to be remembered as leaders 50 years from now?” he asked.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the economy, expanding opportunities for young people and ensuring Nigerians can realise their potential.

Meanwhile, Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ali Pate; governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states; and business leaders, including BUA Chairman Abdulsamad Rabiu and Oando Chief Executive Wale Tinubu, expressed gratitude to Allah and the President for the opportunity to enter the Holy Ka’abah and pray alongside him.