President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the importance of expressing gratitude to God for guidance, blessings, answers to prayers, and the well-being of humanity on various occasions. He conveyed this sentiment while addressing journalists at the conclusion of the lesser Hajj, Umrah, performed in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday.
Tinubu explained that his decision to undertake Umrah as part of his visit to Saudi Arabia was rooted in the belief in the necessity of thanking God for His numerous blessings. He expressed, “That’s why we are here, and May Allah accept all our prayers, individually and collectively, for the good of the nation and its people. There is a need for me to thank God for what He has done for me.”
The President, attending the Saudi-Africa summit alongside African leaders and the business community, affirmed his commitment to altering the nation’s narrative through comprehensive reforms, programs, and policies aimed at benefiting citizens. Tinubu stressed the untapped potential of the country and the determination of his administration to unleash it for the betterment of all Nigerians.
While in Makkah, Tinubu was hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and accompanied by a special cleric from the King’s palace for the circumambulation of the Kaaba. The rituals, conducted by Sheikh Dakilullah Al-Makky and Sheik Abdulwahab Suleiman, involved circumambulating the Kaaba seven times and moving back and forth between Safa and Marwa seven times.
Notably, governors from Bauchi, Niger, and Katsina states, along with the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, and other high-ranking government officials, participated in the ritual alongside the president.