The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has inaugurated a 17-member Central Security Committee (CSC) to oversee the security and safety of Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj operations in Abuja.
Chairman and CEO, Ambassador Ismaila Abba Yusuf, said the committee’s mandate covers both onshore and offshore phases of the pilgrimage, ensuring the well-being of all pilgrims.
Ambassador Yusuf urged members to implement proactive and preventive strategies, including rigorous monitoring of departure centers to prevent the entry of undesirable persons and curb drug-related or human trafficking activities.
He emphasized the need for vigilance, integrity, and dedication to duty, stressing that the committee must ensure pilgrims receive the best value for their money. He also called for close collaboration with security and intelligence agencies on matters with national security implications, to safeguard pilgrims and protect Nigeria’s international reputation.
The committee head, Ambassador Lawal Rabiu, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them, assuring that members would coordinate closely with relevant agencies to gather intelligence, manage operations, and address potential security challenges effectively.
