Shettima hails NAHCON over 2026 Hajj operations

Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for their improved coordination of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, attributing its success to President Bola Tinubu's leadership and decisive action. Speaking in Abuja, Shettima, during a review of the comprehensive 2026 Hajj operations report, highlighted the commission's renewed vigour under current management and their pivotal role as global Hajj operations transition from a government-to-government model to a business-to-business structure.

He credited President Tinubu's decisive intervention at a critical juncture as a key factor in the exercise's success, expressing gratitude for the President's support which ensured the operation's seamless progression. Shettima also commended the NAHCON board, particularly its Chairman Ismail Abba Yusuf, for their confidence, capacity, and professional dedication, urging them to maintain this spirit in future endeavors.

The Vice President highlighted the ongoing critical role of the government in facilitating a smooth Hajj pilgrimage, promising continued support from the Federal Government. NAHCON Chairman Ismail Abba Yusuf thanked President Tinubu and Shettima for their steadfast executive backing, emphasizing the commission's successful stabilization of foreign exchange access, travel allowances, and mitigation of fuel price volatility, which significantly alleviated financial burdens on pilgrims amidst global economic challenges.

Yusuf acknowledged the Vice President's leadership in fostering collaboration among stakeholders, attributing the operation's success to harmonized efforts and meticulous logistical management, ensuring pilgrims were treated with dignity throughout the sacred journey.