The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially commenced 2025 Hajj operations with the departure of its advance team to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In a statement, NAHCON spokesperson Shafii Mohammed said the team, comprising key operational staff and senior members of the National Medical Team, departed Abuja on Monday following a farewell ceremony held at the Hajj House.

The director of administration and human resources, Babagana Bukar, commended the team’s performance during the previous Hajj and reaffirmed his trust in team members.

He appealed to the NAHCON chairman, Abdullahi Saleh, and the management to continue to extend support to the team to ensure a successful outing.

In his address, the NAHCON chairman urged the team to approach the assignment with a deep sense of duty and commitment, emphasising the sanctity of the task ahead.

Mr Saleh said, “Please cooperate, help one another, work as a team, and discharge your responsibilities with sincerity. If you succeed, the commission succeeds.”

He assured them of the commission’s backing and reminded them to fear Allah as they execute their duties.

Mustapha Sani, the commission’s secretary, assured the team that the chairman had already approved welfare packages. He reiterated NAHCON’s commitment to staff support throughout the Hajj period.

The advance team is responsible for establishing the groundwork for the entire Hajj operation, including accommodation arrangements, airport reception protocols and coordination with Saudi Hajj authorities.

The team’s efforts will pave the way for seamless arrival and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims, medical personnel and state officials.

The departure of the team marks a major milestone in the 2025 Hajj preparations and the official start of Nigeria’s participation in this year’s pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

(NAN)