By James Isaac, Abuja
In preparation for the 2025 Hajj exercise, the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs has pledged close collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to ensure a smooth and hitch-free pilgrimage for Nigerian Muslims.
The commitment was made on Tuesday during a closed-door meeting held at the National Assembly complex in Abuja between members of the Committee and the leadership of NAHCON. The meeting, which lasted over three hours, was aimed at reviewing the Commission’s readiness and addressing all logistical and operational concerns ahead of the annual religious exercise.
Speaking after the meeting, Senator Adamu Aliero, who represented the Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Sani Bello, said the engagement was necessary to guarantee a successful Hajj operation in 2025.
“The meeting was focused on the conduct of the 2025 Hajj. We want to make sure the exercise is hitch-free, and we are satisfied with the arrangements so far. The Chairman of the Commission has assured us of their readiness,” Aliero said.
On the number of intending pilgrims and related logistics, Senator Aliero noted that all foreseen challenges had been discussed and appropriate solutions provided.
“We have discussed all potential challenges exhaustively, and the Commission has made adequate preparations to ensure nothing impedes the smooth running of the exercise,” he added.
The Committee, however, declined to revisit issues from the 2024 Hajj, choosing instead to focus on ensuring an improved and efficient pilgrimage this year.
“We are not dwelling on last year’s issues. Our focus is on the successful conduct of the 2025 Hajj, and we are optimistic that it will be handled without any problems,” Aliero stressed.
With the continued synergy between the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and NAHCON, Nigerians have been assured of a well-coordinated and hitch-free Hajj experience in 2025.
