Nigeria’s Tinubu performs Umrah during Saudi Arabia trip

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu travelled to Saudi Arabia and performed Umrah, a Muslim pilgrimage that can take place at any time of year.

A statement from his office said he would pray for guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people.

His media aide said the trip was also intended to seek divine support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The timing prompted speculation about Tinubu’s health after a video from a campaign launch drew attention on social media, but his aide said the trip was not for medical checks.

Nigeria is home to large Christian and Muslim populations, and religion is important to many people there.

The country is beginning a new election campaign, with the economy and insecurity among the major issues facing voters.

The sources differ on whether Tinubu had completed the rites at the time of the first account; the later account says he performed them that day.