*Convert Our Diversity Into Prosperity, Tinubu Tells Nigerian Delegation In Mecca
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has said he was focused on ushering prosperity to millions of Nigerians, adding that the country’s economy has emerged from a difficult period, as his administration reforms were delivering sustainable development.
Speaking on Monday, November 2, while reflecting on his visit to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah and gained access to pray inside the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah, Tinubu, according to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said his administration remained committed to strengthening Nigeria’s economy and investing in the future of its youths.
He was quoted as saying: “The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring.
“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.
“It is important to put Allah first, then move on. Follow your conscience. Follow the right path that will lead Nigeria to that greatness.”
He noted that nation-building requires sustained investment in young people, and the decisions taken by today’s leaders would determine how future generations remember them.
The President added: “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? That’s the main thing. So this is a rare privilege to lead the country.
On his spiritual experience, Tinubu thanked King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and members of the Nigerian delegation access to the Ka’abah.
Tinubu described the experience as a historic honour and a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia noting that he was led into the Ka’abah by Sheikh Dahlulah Muthawal of Masjid al-Haram le, to offer prayers of gratitude for the opportunity to serve Nigeria.
He stated: “I want to say a big thank you for the faith, for the recognition. I can’t believe the fencing of the Ka’abah is in Green-White-Green, which reminds us of the Nigerian identity.
“I thank the crown prince and all the administrators of the holy land for the hospitality and recognition given to me as the leader of the delegation and the country.
“We are all facing challenges and hostility around us. We will overcome them with faith in God Almighty. I’m grateful forever.
“It is an honour that I enjoyed, and it is gracious of them to have allowed me to enter inside the Ka’abah. This is history.”
The President disclosed that he prayed for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve Nigerians, expressed confidence that his prayers had been answered.
“Before the 2023 election, I did the same thing. I asked Allah to bless my Umrah then, and He did. And I promised that I would come back to thank Him,” he said.
Tinubu said his experience reinforced his belief that political power is a responsibility that must be exercised with humility and in the service of the people, describing his emergence as Nigeria’s President as a privilege that must be justified through dedicated service.
“I have faith in that, and I believe extremely well that He has done me and my country a great favour.
“Out of many millions of people, to be the President and Commander-in-Chief is a favour that only Almighty God can do to a human being,” he said.
Meanwhile, the President has expressed hope that Nigeria’s ethnic, religious and cultural diversity would remain a source of strength and national development, rather than division.
Speaking when he hosted members of his delegation to a dinner in Mecca, the President prayed for Nigeria’s diversity to become a source of prosperity, unity, peace and sustainable development for the benefit of all citizens.
According to Onanuga, Tinubu was optimistic that Nigeria’s ethnic, religious and cultural diversity would remain a source of strength and national development, rather than division.
He urged Nigerians to embrace mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence and a shared commitment to the country’s progress, praying: “May Almighty Allah bless Nigeria, convert our diversity into prosperity as a country.”
He also prayed for enduring peace and harmony in the country, asking Allah to grant Nigeria’s leaders the wisdom, courage and foresight to steer the nation towards greater development and improved living conditions.
Tinubu sought divine guidance and protection for Nigerians at home and abroad, praying to Allah to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among citizens and inspire patriotism, compassion and service to the nation.
He said Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources, alongside the talents, creativity and enterprise of its diverse population, provided a strong foundation for building a prosperous and inclusive country.
