The Federal Government has booked a total of 64,188 Nigerians for this year’s holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Vice President Kashim Shettima flagged off the inaugural airlift of pilgrims from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.
The ceremony marked the airport’s first international flight. Shettima commended Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State for promoting unity, religious tolerance, and mutual respect by hosting the inaugural flight ceremony in his state.
The Vice President conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill to the pilgrims, noting that the President has made available all necessary resources to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj.
He cautioned the pilgrims to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the dignity of the Nigerian flag, emphasizing that the success of the Hajj operation rests on their shoulders.
Shettima urged logistics officers to treat their duties as an assignment entrusted to them by God and to avoid negligence, ensuring that every pilgrim departs and returns with a heart full of gratitude and a voice free of complaints.
Shettima expressed gratitude to the leadership of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to coordinate the 2025 Hajj exercise and make its operations a success.
The Federal Government’s commitment to the pilgrims reflects its covenant with the people to protect, support, and elevate every Nigerian.
