The President said the experience held special significance for him, particularly as he noticed the resemblance between the colours surrounding the Ka’abah and Nigeria’s national colours.
By Mmesoma Onwuka
365Daily – President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his determination to advance Nigeria’s development, describing his recent spiritual experience in Saudi Arabia as an opportunity to seek divine guidance, wisdom and strength for national leadership.
The President made this known on Monday while reflecting on his Umrah pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he and members of the Nigerian delegation were granted access to pray inside the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah.
The rare privilege was facilitated by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
During the visit, Sheikh Dahlulah Muthawal of Masjid al-Haram led President Tinubu into the sacred structure, where he offered prayers of thanksgiving to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces.
Tinubu expressed appreciation to the Saudi monarch and Crown Prince for extending the privilege to him and members of his delegation, describing the experience as a historic moment he would always cherish.
He also acknowledged the hospitality and recognition accorded to the Nigerian delegation, noting that the gesture reflected the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The President said the experience held special significance for him, particularly as he noticed the resemblance between the colours surrounding the Ka’abah and Nigeria’s national colours.
He further expressed gratitude to the Saudi authorities, adding that faith in Almighty Allah would help nations overcome the challenges confronting them.
Speaking on the prayers he offered, Tinubu disclosed that he sought divine wisdom and resilience to continue discharging his responsibilities to Nigerians.
He recalled undertaking a similar spiritual journey before the 2023 presidential election, when he prayed for a successful Umrah and promised to return in thanksgiving.
Reflecting on Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26 of the Holy Qur’an, which emphasises Allah’s ultimate control over sovereignty and authority, the President noted that political power was a responsibility entrusted to individuals by God.
He stressed that leadership must be exercised with humility and accountability, pointing out that positions of authority are temporary and that ultimate power belongs to Almighty Allah.
Tinubu said his faith had reinforced his belief that becoming Nigeria’s President was a special privilege from God, which must be matched with sincere commitment to serving the country.
Reaffirming his dedication to national development, he said his resolve to advance Project Nigeria had grown stronger, with a focus on achieving prosperity and fulfilling the aspirations of citizens.
The President also expressed optimism about the country’s economic direction, describing its economic foundation as solid and the progress made after a difficult period as encouraging.
He however, emphasised the importance of preparing younger generations for the future, stating that investments in education, opportunities and human development would determine how present leaders are remembered in the years ahead.
Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration would continue working towards strengthening the economy, expanding opportunities for young people and creating an environment where citizens could achieve their potential.
He concluded by thanking Almighty Allah for the opportunity to lead the country and pledged to continue working towards Nigeria’s progress.
Among those who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enter the Holy Ka’abah and pray alongside the President were Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate; governors from Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara States; and business leaders, including BUA Chairman, Abdulsamad Isiaka Rabiu, and Oando Chief Executive Officer, Wale Tinubu.