NATIONAL Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Sunday officially flagged off the 2026 Hajj operations with the inaugural airlift of 474 pilgrims from Kogi State to Saudi Arabia.
News Point Nigeria reports that the development marked the formal commencement of this year’s pilgrimage exercise for Nigerian pilgrims heading to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The flag-off ceremony, which was held in Abuja after being relocated from Ogun State, attracted top government officials, traditional rulers and major stakeholders involved in the Hajj operation.
Speaking during the event, the Chairman of NAHCON, Abba Yusuf, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for what he described as their steadfast support toward ensuring a successful and hitch-free 2026 Hajj exercise.
He urged all intending pilgrims to strictly comply with guidelines issued by NAHCON and the Saudi authorities, placing particular emphasis on the importance of the Nusuk Card.
According to him, the card remains critical for pilgrims’ movement and access to key locations during the pilgrimage.
“All movements should be collective and properly coordinated. NAHCON has made adequate arrangements in Mina and other locations to ensure that accommodation and logistics are intact. Our advance team is already on ground to guarantee seamless operations,” he said.
The NAHCON chairman also warned pilgrims against violating Hajj regulations, stressing that Saudi Arabia imposes strict sanctions on offenders.
He further disclosed that the Federal Government had ensured the completion of all necessary medical screenings for intending pilgrims before departure.
“We have prioritised reforms that focus on the comfort, safety and value for money for all Nigerian pilgrims,” Yusuf added.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Vice President Kashim Shettima urged the pilgrims to represent Nigeria positively during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
He emphasised the need for discipline, patience and integrity throughout the pilgrimage exercise, warning that negligence would not be tolerated.
“This is a sacred assignment. You are ambassadors of our nation under the banner of unity. Conduct yourselves with honour, compassion and responsibility. Let us work together with vigilance to ensure a successful Hajj,” Shettima said.
In her remarks, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Maryam Mahmoud, commended NAHCON for its level of preparedness and called for sustained cooperation among stakeholders to ensure a smooth exercise.
She also urged the intending pilgrims to remember Nigeria in prayers, stressing the need for peace, unity and national progress.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual privilege and advised the pilgrims to approach the sacred journey with sincerity, humility and discipline.
“We carry with you our prayers. Use this opportunity for reflection, repentance and national intercession. Conduct yourselves with dignity, peace and tolerance, and remain focused on your spiritual obligations,” the governor said.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Ahmed Tijani Anaje and Idris Musa, who represented the Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, alongside government officials and Hajj administrators.