NAHCON Launches 2026 Hajj Operations, Airlifts First Batch of Kogi Pilgrims
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has officially commenced the 2026 Hajj operations with the inaugural airlift of 474 pilgrims from Kogi State to Saudi Arabia.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Abuja after being relocated from Ogun State, attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders in the Hajj sector.
Speaking at the event, NAHCON Chairman, Abba Yusuf, commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima for their sustained support towards ensuring a seamless pilgrimage exercise.
He urged intending pilgrims to strictly comply with operational guidelines set by NAHCON and Saudi authorities, placing particular emphasis on the mandatory use of the Nusuk Card, which he described as critical for movement and access during the pilgrimage.
According to him, all pilgrim movements would be centrally coordinated, with adequate arrangements already concluded in Mina and other key locations to guarantee accommodation and logistics.
“Our advance team is already on ground to ensure seamless operations,” he said, warning that violations of Hajj regulations could attract strict sanctions under Saudi law.
The chairman further disclosed that the Federal Government had completed all required medical screenings for pilgrims ahead of departure, adding that reforms introduced by the commission were focused on enhancing comfort, safety, and cost efficiency.
In his remarks, Vice President Kashim Shettima called on the pilgrims to act as responsible ambassadors of Nigeria, stressing discipline, patience, and integrity throughout the pilgrimage.
“This is a sacred assignment. You are ambassadors of our nation under the banner of unity. Conduct yourselves with honour, compassion, and responsibility,” he said.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for the FCT, Maryam Mahmoud, commended NAHCON’s preparedness and urged sustained collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free operation. She also called on pilgrims to offer prayers for national unity, peace, and progress.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual privilege, urging pilgrims to approach the exercise with sincerity, humility, and discipline.
He encouraged them to use the opportunity for reflection, repentance, and prayers for the nation, while maintaining dignity and tolerance throughout their stay.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Ohinoyi of Egbiraland, Ahmed Tijani Anaje, and the Sarkin Jiwa, Idris Musa, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto, alongside other government officials and Hajj administrators.
