Zulum Pledges Strong Support for NAHCON, Mobilises Governors for Smooth 2025 Hajj
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in ensuring a seamless and successful 2025 Hajj operation.
During a courtesy visit to NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, in Abuja on Monday, Zulum assured the commission of his dedication to facilitating a smooth pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims. He pledged to mobilise his fellow governors, both within the North-East Governors Forum and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, to assist pilgrims in settling their Hajj fares promptly.
Acknowledging the critical role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima in supporting NAHCON, Zulum commended the commission’s efforts despite challenges faced during the last Hajj. He identified VIP management as a key issue and urged NAHCON to deploy competent personnel with strict oversight to handle VIP affairs effectively.
The governor also ememphasisedhe importance of early engagement with state governors to enhance coordination, prevent misinformation, and ensure a well-organised pilgrimage. With the level of preparation already underway, he expressed optimism about a successful 2025 Hajj.
In response, Prof. Usman expressed appreciation for Zulum’s visit and provided updates on secured spaces for Nigerian pilgrims, including allocations for private tour operators. NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, hailed Zulum as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding governors, recalling the praise he received from Borno State pilgrims during the last Hajj.
Elegushi also announced that Umzah Airlines, alongside three other carriers, has been approved to facilitate this year’s pilgrimage, further promoting indigenous airline operators.
