President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage commonly known as the Lesser Hajj, following his departure from Abuja on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
Tinubu landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, where he was received by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo, and the Saudi Head of Royal Protocol, Ahmad bin Thafir.
According to a report by the Voice of Nigeria, the President subsequently proceeded with his religious visit to Makkah to perform the pilgrimage and offer prayers for Nigeria.
It’s was reported on Friday 30th of October2026, that President Tinubu had performed the Umrah rites at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, where he was received by several officials.
The pilgrimage followed an earlier announcement by the Presidency that the President would travel to the Holy City for spiritual reflection, devotion and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued development.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Tinubu would seek Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people during the religious exercise.
Before departing Abuja, the President commissioned five newly acquired Nigerian Air Force helicopters, comprising two Airbus H-125 helicopters and three Agusta 109 Trekker B helicopters. He also inaugurated the newly constructed Presidential Air Fleet Hangar at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The Presidency had indicated that Tinubu would return to Nigeria next week after completing the pilgrimage.
Umrah, unlike the annual Hajj, can be performed at any time of the year and involves a series of religious rites undertaken by Muslims in Makkah.
The President’s visit comes amid continuing national discussions on Nigeria’s security, economic conditions and political developments.
President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj and performed Umrah at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, according to Saudi Arabia’s official news agency.