President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has departed Abuja for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, the Islamic pilgrimage commonly known as the lesser Hajj, according to reports published on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The trip was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. The Presidency said the visit would provide Tinubu with an opportunity for spiritual reflection, devotion and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability and continued progress.
Before leaving Abuja, Tinubu was scheduled to inaugurate equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The equipment is intended to support the Air Force’s operations, although the Presidency’s announcement did not specify the equipment involved.
According to the official statement, the President is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the religious exercise. No specific return date was announced.
Reports on the trip indicate that the President is accompanied by state governors and other government officials. However, the Presidency’s published statement did not provide a full list of members of the delegation.
Umrah involves a series of religious rites in Makkah and can be performed at different times of the year, unlike Hajj, which takes place during a designated period in the Islamic calendar. Muslims undertake the pilgrimage as an act of worship and devotion.
The Presidency said Tinubu would use the visit to seek Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people. The trip comes as the administration continues to address the country’s security and economic challenges while preparing for the 2027 general election.
The President’s departure follows a series of recent official engagements, including activities related to national security and defence. On October 26, Tinubu’s message to the maiden Africa International Defence Exhibition in Lagos highlighted the importance of defence partnerships and cooperation in addressing evolving security threats.
The President is expected to resume his duties in Nigeria after completing the pilgrimage next week.