Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, on Monday, pledged to support the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj operation.

Mr Zulum said this when he paid a courtesy visit to the chairman of NAHCON, Abdullahi Usman, in Abuja.

The governor assured the NAHCON chairman and other officials of his commitment to supporting the success of the 2025 Hajj.

He pledged to encourage members of the North-East Governors Forum to collaborate with NAHCON in ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj operation.

He promised to mobilise his fellow governors within the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to assist their pilgrims in settling Hajj fares in a timely manner.

Mr Zulum, who expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him and his entourage, reaffirmed his dedication to assisting the commission in executing a seamless pilgrimage.

The governor also acknowledged the unwavering support that President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima had consistently provided to NAHCON since the inception of their administration.

While acknowledging the challenges faced during the previous Hajj, he commended NAHCON for its efforts, considering the complexities involved in organising such a large-scale pilgrimage.

Mr Zulum described VIP management as one of the major challenges encountered last year.

He urged the NAHCON chairman to assign competent personnel to handle VIP affairs with strict oversight.

“NAHCON should ensure the equitable distribution of VIP spaces to all states that formally request for them,” he said.

The governor also advised the commission to engage state governors early by updating them on preparations and expected procedures for the Hajj.

He emphasised the need for synergy between NAHCON and the governors to prevent misinformation, adding that based on the level of preparations already in place, the 2025 Hajj operations would be successful.

Earlier, Mr Usman, who expressed excitement over the governor’s visit, provided updates on the secured spaces for Nigerian pilgrims, including those designated for private tour operators.

He assured the governor that Hajj preparations are well advanced, with a significant number of VIP slots already reserved.

Also speaking, NAHCON’s commissioner of operations, Anofiu Elegushi, described Zulum’s visit as an honour and an opportunity to host one of Nigeria’s best governors.

Mr Elegushi recalled how Borno state pilgrims enthusiastically praised the governor during the last Hajj exercise.

According to him, NAHCON has engaged Umzah Airlines among this year’s approved air carriers for the Hajj in addition to three others, in a bid to support the growth of indigenous airlines.

Those present at the meeting were two additional NAHCON commissioners, some NAHCON board members, senior management staff, and a representative from the Vice President’s Office.

 (NAN)