Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged intending Muslim pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to uphold values that positively reflect Nigeria, describing them as ambassadors of the nation on a global stage.
He gave the charge on Sunday during the official flag-off of the 2026 Hajj airlift at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where he reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring safety, coordination, and the welfare of all pilgrims.
Addressing the pilgrims, Shettima emphasized the need for discipline, humility, patience, and integrity throughout their spiritual journey, noting that their conduct would shape the international perception of Nigeria.
The inaugural flight saw the airlift of about 500 pilgrims from Kogi State to Saudi Arabia, as part of a broader exercise expected to transport approximately 50,000 Nigerians for the annual pilgrimage.
The Vice President described the Hajj as a covenant between the state and its citizens, stressing that while the government has a duty of care to ensure seamless operations, pilgrims must also uphold national values.
“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship, needless anxiety, or preventable setbacks,” he said.
Shettima reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguarding Nigerians both at home and abroad, adding that governance remains anchored on service, accountability, and trust.
He further tasked Hajj administrators, aviation operators, medical teams, and security agencies to maintain high standards of coordination, noting that the success of the exercise would be measured by the comfort and overall experience of pilgrims, rather than just the number of flights.
Also speaking, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo described the pilgrimage as a rare spiritual privilege, urging pilgrims to pray for peace and socio-economic development in Nigeria.
Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, expressed appreciation to the federal leadership for strengthening institutional coordination, assuring that the administration would ensure seamless travel for all pilgrims.
Representing the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, officials said the ministry is collaborating with relevant agencies to guarantee safety and efficiency across airports.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ismail Abba Yusuf, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to pilgrims’ welfare and ongoing reforms aimed at improving transparency and service delivery.
The event underscores Nigeria’s renewed efforts to enhance the Hajj experience while projecting a positive national image on the global stage.
