President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to national development, pledging to build a prosperous Nigeria, invest in young people and pursue policies that will promote shared prosperity.
Tinubu made the pledge on Monday while reflecting on his spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj (Umrah), during which he was granted access to pray inside the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah.
The President and members of his delegation were granted access to the sacred structure by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the privilege, describing the experience as a historic and deeply cherished spiritual moment.
He said the opportunity reinforced the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, founded on friendship, mutual respect and cooperation.
Speaking about his prayers inside the Ka’abah, Tinubu said he asked Almighty Allah for wisdom and resilience to continue serving Nigerians, expressing confidence that his prayers had been answered.
He recalled making a similar prayer during his 2023 presidential election campaign, adding that he had promised to return to Saudi Arabia to express gratitude after his previous Umrah.
Reflecting on Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26 of the Holy Qur’an, the President noted that power and authority ultimately belonged to Almighty Allah, who could grant or withdraw them.
He said the message reinforced the need for leaders to exercise authority responsibly, remain humble and use their positions in the interest of the people.
Tinubu also expressed optimism about the country’s economic direction, describing the foundation laid by his administration as solid.
“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to Project Nigeria, the President said he was determined to promote prosperity and ensure the country’s development in line with the aspirations of Nigerians.
He stressed the importance of investing in young people, warning that the decisions taken by present leaders would determine how future generations judged their leadership.
“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 said.
Tinubu pledged that his administration would continue to strengthen the economy, expand opportunities for young Nigerians and create an environment where citizens could realise their potential.