The Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has assured the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, and his officials of his commitment to supporting the success of the upcoming 2025 Hajj.
Governor Zulum made the pledge to back the 2025 Hajj during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of the commission in Abuja.
He pledged to encourage members of the North-East Governors Forum to collaborate with NAHCON in ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj operation, promising to mobilise his fellow governors within the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to assist their pilgrims in settling Hajj fares in a timely manner.
According to a statement signed by the Commission’s Assistant Director, Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, the governor expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him and his entourage, reaffirming his dedication to assisting the Commission in executing a seamless pilgrimage.
He acknowledged the unwavering support President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have consistently provided to NAHCON since the inception of their administration.
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While acknowledging the challenges faced during the previous Hajj, Governor Zulum commended NAHCON for its efforts, recognising the complexities involved in organizing such a large-scale pilgrimage.
He identified VIP management as one of the major challenges encountered last year and urged the NAHCON Chairman to assign competent personnel to handle VIP affairs with strict oversight.
Additionally, he recommended that NAHCON ensures the equitable distribution of VIP spaces to all states that formally request them, advising the Commission to engage state governors early by updating them on preparations and expected procedures for the Hajj.
Zulum emphasised the need for synergy between NAHCON and the governors to prevent misinformation.
With the level of preparations already in place, he expressed confidence in the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.
Earlier, the NAHCON Chairman expressed his delight at hosting the distinguished Governor at Hajj House.
Usman provided updates on the secured spaces for Nigerian pilgrims, including those designated for Private Tour Operators, assuring that Hajj preparations are well advanced, with a significant number of VIP slots already reserved.
NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, described Governor Zulum’s visit as an honour and opportunity to host one of Nigeria’s best governors, recalling how Borno State pilgrims enthusiastically praised their Governor during the last Hajj.
He also revealed that NAHCON has engaged Umzah Airlines among this year’s approved air carriers for the Hajj in addition to three others, in a bid to support the growth of indigenous airlines.
Other dignitaries present during the visit included two additional NAHCON Commissioners, some NAHCON Board members, senior management staff, and a representative from the Vice President’s Office.
Meanwhile, NAHCON has informed all intending pilgrims who have yet to complete their Hajj fare payments, as well as other Nigerian Muslims planning to embark on the 2025 Hajj, that the Commission has successfully secured over 52,000 slots for the pilgrimage.
Sequel to this feat, the agency said the registration is open until the quota is exhausted.
NAHCON, therefore, urged all interested pilgrims to complete their payments as soon as possible to secure their places, adding that once all slots are filled, the Commission will no longer accept any additional payments.
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