Borno State Governor Pledges Support For Smooth 2025 Hajj Operations

As part of efforts to ensure successful 2025 Hajj operations in Nigeria, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh, recently hosted the Governor of Borno State, Professor Umara Zulum, during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, February 24, 2025.

Governor Zulum expressed his full commitment to supporting NAHCON for the success of the 2025 Hajj, assuring the Commission’s officials that he would work alongside the North-East Nigeria Governors Forum to guarantee smooth operations.

He also pledged to mobilise other governors through the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to assist pilgrims in paying Hajj fares promptly.

In his remarks, Zulum reaffirmed his dedication to assisting NAHCON in ensuring a seamless pilgrimage and acknowledged the support provided by President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to the Commission.

He also recognised the challenges faced during previous Hajj operations, including issues with VIP management.

Zulum recommended assigning competent personnel to handle VIP affairs with strict oversight and ensuring fair distribution of VIP spaces to all states that request them.

Emphasising the importance of synergy between NAHCON and the state governors, Zulum expressed confidence that with proper coordination, the 2025 Hajj operations would be successful and smooth.

Earlier, Professor Abdullahi Saleh, NAHCON Chairman, provided updates on the preparations for the pilgrimage, including the reservation of slots for Nigerian pilgrims and private tour operators.

He assured Governor Zulum that Hajj preparations were well on track, with many VIP slots already secured.

In his vote of thanks, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, described Governor Zulum’s visit as an honor and expressed appreciation for his ongoing support to NAHCON’s mission of ensuring a smooth Hajj operation for Nigerian pilgrims.

Prince Elegushi also mentioned that NAHCON had partnered with Umzah Airlines and three other approved air carriers for the 2025 Hajj.

NAHCON has announced that over 52,000 slots have been secured for Nigerian pilgrims and urged intending pilgrims to complete their Hajj fare payments as soon as possible.

The Commission has made it clear that once the slots are filled, no further payments will be accepted.

The meeting was attended by NAHCON Commissioners, Board members, senior management staff, and a representative from the Vice President’s Office.