President Bola Tinubu has departed Abuja for Makkah in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and offer prayers for Nigeria.
The presidential aircraft took off at about 2:20pm on Thursday from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had earlier announced that the visit would provide the President an opportunity for spiritual reflection, devotion and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.
“While in Makkah, President Tinubu will perform the religious rites associated with Umrah, seeking Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people,” the statement said.
Several state governors were present at the airport to see the President off. They included the Governors of Kwara, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Borno, Babagana Zulum; Kaduna, Uba Sani; Sokoto, Ahmad Aliyu; Jigawa, Umar Namadi; and Yobe, Mai Mala Buni.
Before his departure, Tinubu commissioned newly acquired equipment for the Nigerian Air Force at the Presidential Wing of the airport.
The President is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the pilgrimage.
