The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially launched its 2025 Hajj operations with the departure of its Advance Team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement issued on Monday by Shafii Mohammed, Principal Information Officer at NAHCON, the team includes key operational staff and senior members of the National Medical Team. They departed Abuja following a farewell ceremony held at the Hajj House.
Addressing the team, the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Alhaji Babagana Bukar, praised their performance during the previous Hajj and reaffirmed his confidence in their capabilities. He also appealed to NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, and the management to sustain their support for the team.
In his remarks, Prof. Saleh urged the team to carry out their duties with a deep sense of responsibility and dedication.
“You are not going there to sleep, you are going there to serve the guests of Allah,” he said, stressing the need for cooperation, sincerity, and teamwork.
He assured the team of the commission’s backing and reminded them to maintain a consciousness of their spiritual responsibilities.
Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, Commissioner for Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services, described the team’s role as both central and strategic to the success of the entire Hajj operation. He encouraged them to approach the mission with patience and integrity.
The commission’s Secretary, Dr Mustapha Sani, revealed that welfare packages had already been approved for the team, reiterating NAHCON’s commitment to staff welfare throughout the Hajj period.
“You are laying the foundation for this year’s operation. Your success is the commission’s success,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Advance Team, Malam Alidu Shutti, Director of Inspectorate and Compliance and Deputy Makkah Coordinator, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in them.
“We are professionals. We are tested and capable hands. We will not let you down,” he assured, while requesting the continued support of the commission.
The Advance Team is tasked with establishing critical groundwork for the Hajj operation, including accommodation arrangements, airport reception protocols, and coordination with Saudi Hajj authorities.
Their work will ensure the smooth reception and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims, medical teams, and state officials in the Kingdom.
The departure of the Advance Team represents a key milestone in Nigeria’s preparations for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the world.
(NAN)