President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s development, pledging to pursue policies that promote economic prosperity, expand opportunities for young people and strengthen the country’s economic foundations.
The President made the pledge after performing the lesser Hajj, also known as Umrah, in Saudi Arabia, where he was granted the opportunity to enter the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah and offer prayers alongside members of his delegation.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and his delegation access to the sacred site.
Describing the experience as historic and deeply meaningful, the President said he prayed for divine wisdom and resilience to continue serving Nigerians.
“I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted,” he said.
Tinubu recalled undertaking a similar spiritual journey before the 2023 presidential election, when he promised to return to express gratitude to Allah if his prayers were answered.
He also referenced Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26 of the Holy Qur’an, which highlights Allah’s sovereignty and authority to give and take power, noting that political leadership should be regarded as a divine trust that must be exercised responsibly in the interest of the people.
The President described his emergence as Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief as a blessing that carries a responsibility to serve the country with dedication.
He said the spiritual experience had further strengthened his resolve to implement his vision for Nigeria, particularly in the areas of economic development, youth empowerment and national prosperity.
“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 stated.
On the economy, Tinubu expressed optimism about the direction of his administration’s policies, describing the country’s economic foundation as solid and saying the economy had moved beyond what he called a difficult period.
He also emphasised the importance of investing in young Nigerians, warning that the decisions taken by current leaders would shape how future generations assess their performance.
“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 that his administration would prioritise economic growth, youth development and the creation of opportunities for Nigerians to realise their potential.
He further described the gesture by the Saudi authorities as a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. Tinubu also noted the presence of Nigeria’s green and white national colours on the fencing around the Ka’abah, saying it reminded him of the country’s identity.
Members of the presidential delegation included Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; and the governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states.
Chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Oando Chief Executive Officer, Wale Tinubu, were also among the prominent Nigerians who accompanied the President.
According to the statement, members of the delegation expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enter the Holy Ka’abah and pray alongside the President.
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