The 2026 Hajj operations commenced on Sunday as the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) airlifted 473 pilgrims from Kogi State to Saudi Arabia, marking the inaugural flight for this year’s pilgrimage.
The pilgrims departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, aboard UMZA flight UMZ3501 at about 5 p.m., bound for Madinah.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who presided over a brief send-off ceremony at the airport, urged the pilgrims to uphold values that project Nigeria positively on the global stage.
Describing them as ambassadors of the country, Shettima emphasised the need for discipline, humility, patience and integrity throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
“You are ambassadors of Nigeria. You carry with you the image of our nation and the dignity of our people. Let your conduct reflect discipline, humility, patience and integrity,” he said.
The Vice President also underscored the government’s responsibility in ensuring a smooth pilgrimage, noting that the exercise places a duty on public institutions to guarantee the safety, dignity and seamless movement of pilgrims.
“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship, needless anxiety or preventable setback,” he added.
Shettima reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to safeguarding Nigerians both at home and abroad, describing governance as a covenant anchored on service and accountability.
While noting that Hajj is a personal act of worship, he said it also reflects the credibility of national institutions, as every pilgrim travels under Nigeria’s banner.
In his remarks, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual privilege and urged the pilgrims to remain devoted to prayers, particularly for Nigeria’s peace and socio-economic progress.
He also called on them to pray for the country’s leadership as it strives to deliver greater national development.
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, commended the President and Vice President for their support in strengthening coordination among relevant agencies, assuring that the FCT Administration would ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims.
Earlier, NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Amb. Ismail Yusuf, reiterated the commission’s commitment to pilgrims’ welfare, noting that ongoing reforms are aimed at improving transparency and service delivery.
He urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves with humility while in the Holy Land.
