Shettima Flags Off 2026 Hajj, Urges Pilgrims to Uphold Nigeria’s Values

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged intending Muslim pilgrims to uphold values that positively reflect Nigeria as they embark on the 2026 Hajj, describing them as ambassadors of the nation on the global stage.

Shettima gave the charge on Sunday during the official flag-off of the 2026 Hajj airlift at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety, welfare, and seamless movement of pilgrims.

“You are ambassadors of Nigeria. You carry with you the image of our nation and the dignity of our people. Let your conduct reflect discipline, humility, patience, and integrity,” the Vice President said.

The inaugural flight airlifted about 500 pilgrims from Kogi State to Saudi Arabia, as part of a total of approximately 50,000 Nigerians expected to participate in this year’s pilgrimage.

‘Pilgrimage Is a Covenant’

Shettima described the Hajj as a binding covenant between the state and its citizens, noting that while the government must ensure duty of care, pilgrims must also uphold national values.

“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship, needless anxiety, or preventable setback,” he said.

He added that the exercise places a responsibility on public institutions to guarantee dignity, orderliness, and safety throughout the pilgrimage.

The Vice President also reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to protecting Nigerians at home and abroad, stressing that governance is anchored on service and accountability.

Shettima tasked Hajj administrators, aviation operators, medical personnel, and security agencies to maintain high standards of coordination and service delivery, noting that success should be measured by the overall experience of pilgrims.

“The success of this operation will not be measured by the number of aircraft that depart alone, but by the comfort of our pilgrims and the absence of avoidable hardship,” he said.

Governor Usman Ododo urged pilgrims to remain devoted in prayer for Nigeria’s peace and development during their stay in the Holy Land.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, commended the Federal Government’s efforts in strengthening coordination to ensure a smooth Hajj operation.

The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, represented by Captain Mamud Abdullahi, assured that the ministry is working with relevant agencies to guarantee safety and efficiency across airports.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ismail Abba Yusuf, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the welfare of pilgrims and ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and service delivery.

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