President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja after completing his Umrah pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ending his week-long spiritual visit to the holy city of Makkah.
The President arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, according to information released by the State House.
Tinubu was received by senior government officials, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
The President departed King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah at exactly 5:13 p.m. Saudi time on Wednesday after completing the religious exercise.
During his stay in Saudi Arabia, Tinubu performed the rites of Umrah, commonly known as the lesser Hajj, at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
One of the major highlights of the visit was the rare privilege granted to the Nigerian leader and members of his delegation to enter the interior of the Holy Ka'abah, where they offered prayers.
The President had earlier expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the hospitality and special courtesies extended to him and the Nigerian delegation.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu used the spiritual visit to pray for Nigeria's peace, security, unity and prosperity. He also sought divine guidance and wisdom to continue leading the country.
His delegation included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Borno and Yobe states, among other officials.
Before leaving Saudi Arabia, the President held a brief meeting with the Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, at the Royal Guest Palace within the airport.
Tinubu's return comes as his administration continues preparations for the remaining activities of its national development agenda and political engagements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Presidency described the pilgrimage as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and prayers for Nigeria.