President Bola Tinubu has described his rare opportunity to enter the Holy Kaaba in Makkah during his Umrah pilgrimage as a profound spiritual experience that has strengthened his commitment to Nigeria’s development.

Saudi authorities reportedly granted the President special permission to enter the sacred structure, a privilege not ordinarily extended to every Muslim performing Umrah.

Tinubu offered prayers inside the Kaaba alongside members of his Nigerian delegation during his visit to Saudi Arabia.

Reflecting on the experience on Monday, the President expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as a rare privilege and a moment of deep personal significance.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to what he called “Project Nigeria”, expressing confidence that his administration’s economic reforms had laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said Nigeria had emerged from a difficult economic period and was on the path to recovery.

“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” the President said.

He stressed that the gains from the ongoing reforms must translate into better opportunities for young Nigerians, noting that decisions taken by current leaders would shape the country’s future.

“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 said.