President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to depart Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage commonly known as the lesser Hajj.

According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the visit will provide Tinubu with an opportunity for spiritual reflection and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.

During his stay in the holy city of Makkah, the President is expected to observe the religious rites associated with Umrah and seek Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its citizens.

Before departing the Federal Capital Territory, Tinubu is scheduled to inaugurate the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. He is also expected to inaugurate equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force for its operations.

The statement said the President is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the spiritual exercise.

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during a specific period in the Islamic calendar.

The planned visit combines the President’s religious observance with official engagements in Abuja before his departure. Further details about his return itinerary were not provided in the statement.

President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to travel to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, for Umrah after official engagements, including an airport inauguration in Abuja.