The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially commenced the 2025 Hajj exercise with the departure of its Advance Team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The team, which included essential operational staff and senior members of the National Medical Team, departed Abuja on Monday following a farewell ceremony at the Hajj House.
Introducing the team to the NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Alhaji Babagana Bukar, commended their excellent performance in the previous year. He noted that their dedication laid the foundation for the success of the 2024 Hajj operations. Bukar urged the Commission’s leadership to maintain strong support for the team to ensure a successful outing again this year.
In his address, Professor Saleh Usman charged the team to embrace the assignment with a sense of purpose and spiritual responsibility.
“You are not going there to sleep; you are going there to serve the Guests of Allah,” he stated. “Please cooperate, help one another, work as a team, and discharge your responsibilities with sincerity. If you succeed, the Commission succeeds.”
He assured the team of NAHCON’s full backing and reminded them of the importance of upholding integrity and accountability.
Also delivering a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS), Professor Abubakar Yagawal, described the team’s role as central and strategic to the overall success of the Hajj exercise.
“You are expected to carry out your responsibilities with the highest level of responsibility, dedication, and patience,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Mustapha Sani, Secretary to the Commission, affirmed that the team’s welfare packages had already been approved by the Chairman, further reinforcing NAHCON’s commitment to staff well-being during the Hajj period.
“You are laying the foundation for this year’s operation. Your success is the Commission’s success,” he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Director of Inspectorate and Compliance and Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Alidu Shutti, expressed appreciation for the trust reposed in them.
“We are professionals. We are tested and capable hands. We will not let you down,” he assured, while also appealing for continued support from the Commission.
The Advance Team is tasked with setting up critical logistics such as accommodation, airport reception, and coordination with Saudi Hajj authorities, laying the groundwork for the seamless reception and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims, officials, and medical teams.
Their departure marks a significant milestone in the nation’s 2025 Hajj preparations and signifies Nigeria’s formal participation in one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.
