The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has reiterated the Commission’s commitment to timely planning, effective coordination, and strict adherence to established procedures ahead of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Professor Usman said NAHCON remains fully aligned with the policy direction of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes the welfare and spiritual well-being of Nigerian pilgrims. He also noted that the Commission operates under the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, with emphasis on the timely completion of critical preparatory activities.
According to him, priority is being given to the early conclusion of pilgrims’ accommodation arrangements in Makkah in line with Saudi regulatory timelines.
As part of efforts to strengthen preparations, the Chairman has approved the deployment of a high-level executive delegation to Saudi Arabia to provide oversight and finalize outstanding accommodation arrangements. The delegation will be led by the Chairman/CEO and includes Professor Abubakar A. Yagawal, Sheikh Muhammad Bin Uthman, Dr. Tajudeen Oladejo, Hajiya Aishat Obi Ahmed, and Dr. Mustapha Mohammed Ali.
The team is expected to conclude all pending arrangements and submit a comprehensive report to the Commission upon completion of its assignment.
However, Professor Usman will remain in Nigeria to receive the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, who is expected to visit the country this month, while coordinating the activities of the delegation.
He disclosed that NAHCON has activated internal governance and oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability, procedural compliance, and effective execution of all preparatory activities. This includes sustained engagement with board members, senior management, service providers, and relevant Saudi authorities.
The Chairman emphasized that all decisions taken by the Commission are institutional and guided by due process, collective responsibility, and the mandate to protect the interests of Nigerian pilgrims while strengthening bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia.
Professor Usman assured stakeholders and intending pilgrims that NAHCON remains focused on delivering a hitch-free and well-organised 2026 Hajj by improving planning, discipline, and professionalism in line with international best practices.
He added that the Commission will continue to issue official updates through its established communication channels as preparations progress.
