The Hajj Institute of Nigeria, Abuja, on Tuesday graduated its first stream of participants from the newly introduced Arabic Language Proficiency Course for Hajj managers an initiative designed to strengthen communication, service delivery, and overall management of Nigerian pilgrims during the annual Hajj.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Hajj House Conference Room, was attended by officials, facilitators, and stakeholders in Hajj administration. In his welcome address, the Rector of the Institute, Professor Muhammad Nasirudeen Maiturare, described the programme as a major milestone in the ongoing reforms aimed at professionalising Hajj operations in Nigeria and across Africa.
Professor Maiturare said the introduction of Arabic as a signature course was strategic, noted that pilgrims embark on the sacred journey with high expectations and several concerns, and therefore deserve officials who can communicate effectively in the language of the Holy Qur’an.
“Today is a day of quiet pride and hopeful promise. You have not only completed a course of study; you have taken a deliberate step towards making our service to pilgrims more humane, more effective, and more rooted in the language of the Holy Qur’an,” he stated.
The Rector stressed that language remains a bridge of empathy and professionalism, adding that Arabic proficiency would enable Hajj officials to better engage with Saudi authorities, resolve issues swiftly, and provide pilgrims with clearer guidance throughout the exercise.
He commended the pioneer graduates for their commitment and discipline during the course, noting that they had set a strong foundation for future cohorts. He also acknowledged the facilitators and partners who contributed to the success of the maiden programme.
The Arabic proficiency initiative is part of the Hajj Institute’s broader effort to raise standards and build a modern, well-trained, and globally competitive Hajj management workforce.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the graduating officials, marking what the Institute described as the beginning of a new era in Nigeria’s pilgrimage administration.
