President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that he prayed for wisdom, strength and resilience to continue leading Nigeria during his recent visit to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

The President expressed confidence that Allah had answered his prayers, recalling that he made a similar request before the 2023 presidential election and returned to offer thanksgiving after emerging victorious.

“I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted,” Tinubu said.

The President explained that during his previous Umrah pilgrimage ahead of the 2023 election, he had sought Allah’s blessings and promised to return in appreciation if his prayers were answered.

Tinubu made the remarks during his ongoing spiritual visit to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage often described as the lesser Hajj.

His comments were contained in a statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The Nigerian leader also expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and members of his delegation the rare opportunity to pray inside the Holy Kaaba.

He described the privilege as a memorable spiritual experience and a demonstration of the enduring diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

Tinubu further acknowledged the hospitality of the Saudi government, appreciating the special recognition and courtesies extended to him and his entourage.

Speaking on the significance of political leadership, the President noted that power ultimately belongs to Allah, who gives authority to whom He wills and can equally take it away.

Referencing Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26 of the Holy Qur’an, he emphasised that leadership should be approached with humility, accountability and a strong sense of responsibility.

He described his emergence as President and Commander-in-Chief of Nigeria, among millions of citizens, as a divine privilege that comes with the obligation to serve the country diligently.

The President also expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its present challenges through faith, determination and sustained efforts towards national development.

On the economy, Tinubu maintained that the country's economic foundations were becoming stronger, expressing confidence in the direction of ongoing reforms.

He also stressed the need to create more opportunities for young Nigerians, noting that the future would judge the present leadership by the investments and opportunities provided for the next generation.

Members of the presidential delegation included the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; and governors from Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states.

Business leaders, including BUA Group Chairman, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Oando Group Chief Executive, Wale Tinubu, were also part of the delegation.