President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of his planned pilgrimage to Makkah to perform Umrah, the lesser Hajj observed by Muslims.
The Nigerian leader arrived on Thursday, October 29, 2026, after departing Abuja earlier in the day. His visit is expected to provide time for religious devotion and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued development, according to the Presidency.
The trip comes as Tinubu continues his official duties at home, with the Presidency stating that he is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the spiritual exercise.
Tinubu’s Arrival in Jeddah
Tinubu landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, where he was received by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yakubu Gambo, and a Saudi royal protocol official, Ahmad bin Thafir.
His arrival followed his departure from the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at approximately 2:20 p.m. local time.
Several Nigerian governors and senior government officials attended the departure ceremony, including Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi and Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi were also among those present.
President Commissions New Military Helicopters Before Departure
Before leaving Nigeria, Tinubu commissioned five newly acquired Nigerian Air Force helicopters intended to strengthen the military’s operational capacity in tackling terrorism and other security challenges.
The aircraft comprise two Airbus H-125 helicopters and three Agusta 109 Trekker B helicopters. He also inaugurated a newly constructed hangar for the Presidential Air Fleet at the Abuja airport.
The activities formed part of the President’s engagements before beginning his religious journey to Saudi Arabia.
Presidency Explains Purpose of the Umrah Trip
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the trip in a statement released on Wednesday, October 28.
According to the statement, the visit would allow Tinubu to undertake spiritual reflection, observe the rites of Umrah and seek divine guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its citizens.
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at different times of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during a specified period in the Islamic calendar.
The President’s return is expected next week, following the completion of the pilgrimage.
Tinubu Expected Back in Nigeria Next Week
The Presidency has not indicated any change to the planned duration of the visit. Tinubu is expected to resume his duties in Nigeria after completing the religious exercise.
His arrival in Saudi Arabia marks the beginning of the latest overseas trip, which the government has described as a spiritual visit centred on prayers for the country.
