By Our Reporter
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to national development, promising to pursue policies that will promote prosperity, invest in young Nigerians and build a stronger future for the country.
Tinubu made the pledge after performing the lesser Hajj, Umrah, in Saudi Arabia, where he was granted the rare privilege of entering the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah to offer prayers alongside members of the Nigerian delegation.
The President thanked Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and his delegation access to the sacred site, describing the experience as a historic and deeply cherished spiritual honour.
He also expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief, saying he prayed for wisdom and resilience to continue leading the country.
“I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted,” Tinubu said, recalling that he had made a similar prayer before the 2023 presidential election and promised to return to give thanks.
Reflecting on Qur’anic teachings in Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26, which affirms Allah’s ultimate sovereignty over power and authority, the President said leadership was a trust that must be exercised with humility and responsibility.
He stressed that political authority was not permanent and that those entrusted with power must use it in the service of the people, noting that ultimate sovereignty belonged to Almighty Allah.
Tinubu said his spiritual experience had strengthened his resolve to serve Nigerians and pursue his vision for the country.
“My commitment to Project Nigeria is higher. I am determined to usher in prosperity and fully develop the country, consistent with the wish of Allah and the support of the people,” he said.
On the economy, the President expressed optimism about the country’s progress, describing its economic foundation as solid and saying Nigeria had emerged from a difficult period.
“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” he stated.
He also emphasised the need to invest in young Nigerians, arguing that the decisions taken by present leaders would shape how future generations judge their stewardship.
“We need to build a future for our youth. If we don’t invest in their future, how do we want to be remembered as leaders 50 years from now?” he asked.
The statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ali Pate, governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states, as well as business leaders Abdulsamad Rabiu and Wale Tinubu, also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enter the Ka’abah and pray.
Tinubu reiterated that his administration would remain focused on strengthening the economy, expanding opportunities for young people and creating an environment in which Nigerians could realise their potential.
