President Bola Tinubu hosted several state governors and members of his delegation to a dinner in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, where he prayed for Nigeria’s prosperity.
The governors in attendance included AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Uba Sani of Kaduna and Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto.
Other government officials present were Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice; Ibrahim Masari, special adviser to the president on political affairs; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser; and Femi Gbajabiamila, the president’s chief of staff.
Abdul Samad Rabiu, founder and executive chairman of BUA Group, also attended the dinner.
During the gathering, Tinubu prayed for divine intervention to transform Nigeria’s diversity into economic prosperity.
“God bless Nigeria and convert our diversity to prosperity as a country,” the president said.
Speaking at the event, Rabiu noted that the delegation’s visit to Makkah offered another opportunity to pray for Nigeria.
He said members of the delegation appreciated the chance to pray for themselves, their families and the country amid its current challenges.
“We are going to continue to support His Excellency in whatever capacity that we can. And definitely, as you all know, Mr President is very passionate about the country,” the BUA chairman said.
“He is working very hard and we will continue to support him.”
Rabiu disclosed that the dinner was the third Tinubu had hosted for members of the delegation since their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Speaking on behalf of the other governors, AbdulRazaq prayed for God to give the president the strength, wisdom and courage required to lead Nigeria.
“We are overwhelmed. Allah will continue to bless you. We will pray for you daily. Pray for Nigeria that you lead,” the governor said.
“And may Allah continue to strengthen you in making the right decisions. Strengthen your wisdom, your boldness, your audacity and your courage.”
On 28 October, the presidency announced that Tinubu would travel to Saudi Arabia on 29 October to perform Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city.
According to the presidency, the visit would provide the president with an opportunity for “spiritual reflection, devotion, and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability, and continued progress”.
Tinubu arrived in Saudi Arabia on 29 October.