The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has flagged off the 2025 Hajj operations with the departure of its Advance Team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The team, comprising officials from various departments and members of the National Medical Team, left the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Monday, May 5, following a formal send-off ceremony at the Hajj House.
Speaking during the ceremony, Director of Administration and Human Resources, Alhaji Babagana Bukar, commended the team’s commitment in previous Hajj exercises and charged them to maintain a high level of professionalism and dedication. He urged the commission’s leadership to continue supporting the team to enable a seamless and successful operation.
In his address, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, reminded the team of the spiritual and national importance of their assignment. “You are going to represent the Federal Republic of Nigeria and serve the guests of Allah. This duty demands sincerity, patience, and unity,” he said.
The Commissioner for Planning, Research, Statistics, Information, and Library Services, Professor Abubakar Yagawal, described the Advance Team as the “heartbeat” of Hajj operations. He emphasized the need for members to uphold fairness, diligence, and transparency in all dealings while on duty in Saudi Arabia.
Secretary to the Commission, Dr. Mustapha Sani, disclosed that all logistical and welfare arrangements for the team had been approved. He noted that their role in laying the operational groundwork was vital to ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims enjoy a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
On behalf of the departing team, Director of Inspectorate and Compliance and Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Alidu Shutti, expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in them. He assured the leadership of NAHCON that the team was well-prepared and fully committed to delivering excellent service. “We are ready to serve, and we will uphold the trust you have placed in us,” he affirmed.
The Advance Team is expected to coordinate arrangements in Saudi Arabia, including securing accommodation, liaising with service providers, overseeing airport reception logistics, and ensuring medical preparedness for the pilgrims. Their early arrival forms a critical part of Nigeria’s Hajj planning, setting the pace for the safe and organized airlifting of thousands of pilgrims expected to participate in this year’s spiritual exercise.
The deployment signals the official commencement of the 2025 Hajj season for Nigeria, reaffirming NAHCON’s commitment to a well-coordinated and hitch-free pilgrimage under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
