President Bola Tinubu departed Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Islamic pilgrimage of Umrah. This spiritual exercise involves prayers and other religious rites in the holy city. According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu will seek Allah's guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people during his visit.
Before departing, Tinubu commissioned equipment acquired by the Nigerian Air Force for its operations at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The president is expected to return to Nigeria next week after completing the Umrah in Saudi Arabia. This trip provides Tinubu with an opportunity to pray for Nigeria's peace, unity, stability, and continued progress.
In a separate development, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, stated that the Ogoni people of Rivers State will support President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. This support is in appreciation of the Federal Government's establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology and appointments of indigenes into key federal positions. Wike made these remarks during a Rainbow Coalition town hall meeting in Rivers State.
Wike described the university as a major development opportunity for the Ogoni area, citing its potential to create jobs, stimulate economic activities, and improve living conditions. He attributed the establishment of the university to the late Senator Barry Mpigi, who worked to secure federal approval for the institution before his death. The minister emphasized that establishing a federal university requires extensive legislative and executive procedures.
The university, according to Wike, will provide employment opportunities for qualified indigenes and increase demand for accommodation, transportation, trade, and other services in the host community. He challenged political leaders in Tai to secure 70 per cent of votes cast for Tinubu and other candidates supported by the Rainbow Coalition in the 2027 elections. This target refers to votes cast for the candidates, not 70 per cent of registered voters.
Wike welcomed political associates who had returned to the Rainbow Coalition following disagreements among members. He dismissed suggestions that the group had split into different political parties, describing the dispute as a minor disagreement. The minister commended the Tai local government chairman for supporting reconciliation and urged the coalition's leadership to ensure that returning members were treated fairly.
The minister urged residents to assess the records of political leaders seeking their support rather than rely solely on campaign promises. He questioned the contributions of some political figures to the development of Rivers State and the country despite their previous positions in public office. The meeting aimed to allow political stakeholders to assess their options and determine what would best serve the interests of Tai, Ogoni, and the Rivers South-East Senatorial District.
Key points
- President Tinubu departs for Makkah to perform Umrah and pray for Nigeria's progress.
- The establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic activities in the Ogoni area.
- Minister Wike challenges political leaders in Tai to secure 70 per cent of votes cast for Tinubu and other candidates supported by the Rainbow Coalition in the 2027 elections.
