Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged intending Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to uphold values that will positively project the image of the country during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The Vice President gave the charge while flagging off the 2026 Hajj airlift at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Senator Shettima described the pilgrims as ambassadors of Nigeria, urging them to demonstrate discipline, humility, patience, and integrity throughout the spiritual exercise.
He said pilgrimage remains a sacred covenant between the government and citizens, stressing that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety, dignity, and comfort of all pilgrims.
The inaugural flight saw about 500 pilgrims from Kogi State airlifted to Saudi Arabia, while about 50,000 Nigerians are expected to participate in this year’s Hajj.
Vice President Shettima also charged Hajj administrators, aviation operators, medical personnel, and security agencies to maintain the highest standards of coordination and service delivery throughout the exercise.
Also speaking, Governor Usman Ododo urged the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and socio-economic development in Nigeria.
Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ismail Abba Yusuf, assured that the commission remains committed to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and ongoing reforms aimed at improving Hajj operations.
Bello Wakili
