VIDEO: Tinubu Travels to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, Presidency Announces Return Window

• Tinubu travels to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and pray for Nigeria’s peace and progress, with the Presidency saying he is expected back next week.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Abuja for Saudi Arabia on Thursday, October 29, 2026, to perform Umrah in the holy city of Makkah.

The aircraft carrying the President took off at approximately 2:20 p.m. Nigerian time. His departure followed an announcement by the Presidency outlining the religious purpose of the visit.

Several governors and senior government officials were at the airport to see him off. They included Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, Umar Namadi of Jigawa and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi were also present.

Presidency explains the journey

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the visit would allow Tinubu to undertake religious observances, reflect and offer prayers for Nigeria.

According to the Presidency, the President will seek divine guidance and blessings for the country while performing the rites associated with Umrah.

The statement identified peace, national unity, stability and continued progress among the subjects of the President’s prayers.

It also scheduled the commissioning of equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport before his departure.

When is Tinubu expected back?

The Presidency said Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the pilgrimage.

However, the announcement did not provide a specific return date or a detailed daily itinerary.

The confirmed development is his departure from Abuja for the Saudi Arabian visit. The reports reviewed for this article did not establish his arrival time in Makkah.

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