Tinubu: I’m determined to usher prosperity, fully develop Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu says he is laser focused on ushering prosperity to millions of Nigerians.
He added that the nation’s economy has emerged from a difficult period, expressing optimism that the reforms introduced by his administration will deliver sustainable development.
Tinubu spoke on Monday while reflecting on his visit to Saudi Arabia, where he performed Umrah and was granted access to pray inside the Holy Ka’abah in Makkah.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Tinubu said his administration remains committed to strengthening the economy and investing in the future of young Nigerians.
“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” Tinubu said.
“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.”
The president said nation-building requires sustained investment in young people, noting that the decisions taken by today’s leaders would determine how future generations remember them.
“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,” he added.
‘I PRAYED FOR WISDOM, RESILIENCE TO SERVE NIGERIANS’
Speaking about his spiritual experience, Tinubu thanked Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, king of Saudi Arabia, and Mohammed bin Salman, crown prince, for granting him and members of the Nigerian delegation access to the Ka’abah.
The president described the experience as a historic honour and a reflection of the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
He said Sheikh Dahlulah Muthawal of Masjid al-Haram led him into the Ka’abah, where he offered prayers of gratitude for the opportunity to serve Nigeria.
“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,” Tinubu said.
“I thank the Crown Prince and all the administrators of the holy land. I thank them 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. I thank the King and the royal Crown Prince. 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.”
Tinubu said he prayed for wisdom and resilience to continue serving Nigerians and expressed confidence that his prayers had been answered.
“Well, I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted. 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.
The president 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.
Tinubu described 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.
Members of the Nigerian delegation included Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice; Ali Pate, coordinating minister of health and social welfare; and the governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states.
Abdulsamad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, and Wale Tinubu, chief executive officer of Oando, were also among the delegation.
