By Ismai’l Yusuf Makwarari
*Photo: Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman*
Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman has vowed that the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage will mark a historic departure from past challenges.
He also promised Nigerian pilgrims a hitch free pilgrimage full of comfort, safety, and spiritual fulfillment.
Professor Saleh Usman made the declaration during a live interview on Africa TV3 in Kano, moderated by the station’s Director General, Dr. Tijjani, as part of a special program highlighting preparations for the 2025 Hajj season.
The NAHCON Chairman emphasized that his leadership is committed to resolving long standing issues such as accommodation shortages, inadequate feeding, and healthcare gaps.
“My goal is to ensure Nigerian pilgrims perform Hajj with ease, joy, and dignity, free from the logistical hurdles of the past,” he said.
On accommodation for pilgrims, he confirmed NAHCON’s
partnership with Saudi authorities to ensure quality lodging, proper room allocations, and nutritious meals. “We have left no stone unturned in collaborating with stakeholders to guarantee comfort,” he said.
Healthcare remains a priority, with NAHCON partnering with the Federal Ministry of Health to deploy medical personnel, ambulances, and heatwave advisories. Free medications will be provided, and pilgrims will receive guidance on managing extreme temperatures. “We are prepared for all scenarios to safeguard our pilgrims’ health,” he assured.
The chairman also addressed misinformation circulating about Hajj preparations, urging media outlets to verify reports directly with NAHCON. “While we welcome constructive criticism, unverified claims only hinder progress. We are open to dialogue and transparency,” he emphasized.
Sheikh Saleh extended gratitude to state governments for their role in securing accommodations and catering services, declaring, No pilgrim will have grounds for complaint.
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support in ensuring the success of the 2025 pilgrimage.
Concluding the interview, he reaffirmed his commitment: “With Allah’s grace and collective effort, the 2025 Hajj will set a new benchmark for excellence.
Our pilgrims deserve nothing less than a seamless and spiritually uplifting journey.”