President Bola Tinubu says he asked God for wisdom and resilience to keep serving Nigerians during prayers at the Holy Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. He recalled making a similar spiritual journey before the 2023 election, when he promised to return and give thanks.
Speaking to journalists on Monday after praying at the Kaaba, Tinubu thanked God for the opportunity and for his good health. “I feel fulfilled and grateful to Almighty Allah for giving us the opportunity and the health. The day went very well,” he said.
He said he prayed for Nigeria’s diversity to become a source of prosperity, noting that the country is home to people of many faiths. “Nigeria is full of diversity. It is made up of all the faiths. May Allah convert all the diversity to prosperity for the country. That is my prayer,” he said.
On his personal requests, Tinubu said he asked for wisdom and resilience to continue serving the people, and that he believed the prayers had been answered. He said he did the same before the 2023 election. “I asked Allah to bless my Umrah then. He did, and I promised that I would come back to thank him, Almighty Allah,” he said.
The President said he regards his election as a favour from God and that anyone given power must use it responsibly. “He owns the power. He said, use it well. If you don’t use it in accordance with my dictates, I can take it from you and give it to another person,” he said.
Tinubu said his commitment to the country remained strong and that he was determined to pursue prosperity in line with his faith and the aspirations of Nigerians. “My commitment is higher, and committed to bringing prosperity,” he said. He urged citizens to put God first and follow their consciences. “It is important to put Allah first. Then follow your conscience, follow the right path that will lead Nigeria to that greatness,” he said.
On the economy, he insisted that the country is emerging from its difficulties and that his administration’s reforms are producing results. “The foundation is solid. The economy has come out of the dark tunnel. It is inspiring. We need to build the future for our youths,” he said.
He stressed the need for sustained investment in young people and questioned how future generations would judge today’s leaders if they failed to prepare for that future.
Tinubu also thanked the Saudi authorities for granting him access to the Kaaba, describing the experience as historic. He expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its present challenges. “We are all facing challenges and hostility around us. We will overcome it with faith in the Almighty,” he said.
