In a proactive move to ensure seamless coordination and improved service delivery for Nigerian pilgrims, Vice President Kashim Shettima today summoned the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Jalal Ahmad Saleh, alongside board members of the commission, for a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The meeting, which focused on Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2025 Hajj exercise, comes amid growing concerns over logistics, visa processing, accommodation, and welfare arrangements for intending pilgrims.
Vice President Shettima, who chairs the National Hajj Planning Committee, emphasized the critical importance of this year’s pilgrimage, noting that timely planning and inter-agency collaboration were key to avoiding the pitfalls of previous years. He urged NAHCON to intensify efforts on stakeholder engagement, especially with state pilgrims’ welfare boards and Saudi authorities.
“We cannot afford lapses in the 2025 Hajj operation,” Shettima said. “The expectations of Nigerian pilgrims are high, and we must meet them with transparency, efficiency, and accountability.”
Professor Saleh briefed the Vice President on current preparations, including the digitalization of registration processes, negotiations with service providers in Saudi Arabia, and strategies to reduce costs while maintaining service quality. He also assured the Vice President of NAHCON's commitment to delivering a smooth and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for all Nigerian pilgrims.