Shettima Flags Off 2026 Hajj, Urges Pilgrims to Represent Nigeria Well

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday flagged off the 2026 Hajj operations in Abuja, urging intending Muslim pilgrims to uphold values that positively reflect Nigeria during their pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at the inaugural airlift ceremony at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Shettima described the pilgrims as ambassadors of the nation who must exhibit discipline, humility, and integrity while abroad.

The ceremony saw the departure of about 500 pilgrims from Kogi State, marking the start of the airlift of approximately 50,000 Nigerians expected to participate in this year’s Hajj.

The Vice President said pilgrimage represents a covenant between the Nigerian state and its citizens, stressing that while the government has a duty to ensure safety and welfare, pilgrims must uphold the country’s image.

“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship,” he said, adding that the success of the operation would be measured by the comfort and experience of pilgrims, not just the number of flights.

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He reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to protecting Nigerians both at home and abroad, noting that governance is anchored on service and accountability.

Shettima also tasked Hajj administrators, aviation authorities, medical teams, and security agencies to ensure seamless coordination, warning that negligence would not be tolerated in an exercise involving lives and national reputation.

Earlier, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo described the pilgrimage as a sacred privilege and urged pilgrims to pray for Nigeria’s peace and development.

Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, assured of the administration’s commitment to a smooth operation, while Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, represented by Captain Mamud Abdullahi, said efforts were in place to guarantee safety and comfort across all airports.

Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ismail Abba Yusuf, also assured stakeholders of ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency and service delivery, urging pilgrims to conduct themselves with humility throughout their spiritual journey.

The Federal Government said the exercise underscores its commitment to ensuring a safe, coordinated, and dignified pilgrimage for all Nigerian participants.