NAHCON Flags Off 2025 Hajj: Pilgrims Urged to Uphold Discipline, Represent Nigeria with Dignity

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has appealed to Nigerian pilgrims travelling for the 2025 Hajj to strictly observe the rules and regulations of the pilgrimage during their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

NAHCON’s Executive Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, made the call on Thursday during the official flag-off of the inaugural flight for the 2025 Hajj season at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the first batch of pilgrims was airlifted in a ceremony launched by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who supervises the Hajj commission, with the support of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.

According to Prof. Usman, the maiden flight conveyed 315 pilgrims drawn from Abia, Bayelsa, and Imo States to the Holy Land.

He urged the pilgrims to approach the spiritual journey with sincerity, discipline, and a sense of national pride.

“You are about to undertake one of the most important journeys of your lives as Duyufur-Rahman (Guests of Allah),” he said.
“Represent Nigeria well. Obey your officials. Follow the rules of the Kingdom and those of your country.”

Prof. Usman also advised the pilgrims to prioritise their health, noting the high temperatures typically experienced in Saudi Arabia during the Hajj period.

“Keep yourselves away from harm, whether natural or man-made, by obeying guidelines. Drink plenty of water and juice to remain healthy,” he added.

He disclosed that a total of 64,188 Nigerian pilgrims had registered for the 2025 Hajj as of May 9, comprising both those sponsored by state governments and private tour operators. While some operators were still uploading visa details, NAHCON, he assured, had put adequate logistics in place for the smooth reception of pilgrims at the Madinah and Jeddah airports.

“Our target is to complete the entire transportation operation within two weeks, God willing,” he stated.

Reflecting on his first eight months in office, the NAHCON boss said the commission had worked diligently to make the pilgrimage more accessible and affordable for Nigerian Muslims.

“By the mercy of Allah, and with the support of government and stakeholders, we succeeded in stabilising the cost of Hajj in spite of global inflation and currency fluctuations,” he noted.

Prof. Usman highlighted a landmark achievement — the acquisition of Tent A Plus in Mina for VIP pilgrims — describing it as a historic first for Nigeria and a significant step in enhancing the comfort and dignity of pilgrims.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their consistent support, especially on critical matters such as the introduction of a Basic Travel Allowance credit card system for pilgrims.

“Their leadership inspires us to serve our pilgrims with excellence and dedication,” he concluded.