2023 Hajj: NAHCON Advance Team Departs Nigeria for Saudi Arabia Sunday

By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman

A team of 31 officials from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has today departed from the Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, commencing their journey to Saudi Arabia.

The Deputy Director, Information and Publications of the Commission, Mousa Ubandawaki, confirmed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

The team comprises 21 NAHCON officials and 10 medical personnel headed to the Holy Land to finalize preparations for the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims from Nasarawa State.

The pilgrims are expected to arrive in the Kingdom on Thursday, May 25th, to participate in the 2023 Holy Pilgrimage.

According to the statement, the primary responsibility of the NAHCON advance team is to organise and coordinate various aspects of the pilgrimage, including reception, accommodation, feeding, transportation, healthcare, and ensuring the general welfare of the pilgrims throughout the Hajj period.

It added that Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, the Deputy Director of Training, will lead the team in these efforts.

Before their departure, a brief farewell ceremony was held at the Hajj House, where Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, emphasised the global significance of Hajj and the importance of unity among the Ummah.

He urged the officials to approach their duties with dedication, diligence, and vigilance, ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of the pilgrims.

Despite the ongoing crisis in Sudan, Alhaji Zikrullah assured that the Commission remains committed to ensuring the timely departure of the inaugural flight on May 25th.

He offered prayers for Allah’s assistance in making this year’s Hajj the best experience for NAHCON and the Muslim Ummah.

During the ceremony, Alhaji Nura Hassan Yakasai, the Commissioner in charge of Policy, Personnel, Management, and Finance (PPMF), noted the crucial role played by the Advance Team and assured them of the Commission’s support in achieving their objectives.

Likewise, Sheikh Suleiman Momoh, the Commissioner in charge of Planning, Research, Statistics, and Library Services (PRSILS), requested the team members to pray for the success of the Hajj exercise once they reach the Holy land.

Alhaji Tajudeen Akande and Dr. Usman Galadima expressed gratitude to NAHCON’s management for their trust and confidence.

They assured their determination and readiness to make this year’s Hajj even more successful than previous years.