Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Sunday flagged off the 2026 Hajj flight operations to Saudi Arabia, urging intending pilgrims to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on Nigeria.
A total of 473 pilgrims from Kogi State were airlifted from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage.
The pilgrims departed aboard UMZA flight UMZ3501 to Madinah at about 5 p.m.
Addressing the pilgrims before departure, Shettima reminded them that they were representatives of Nigeria and should uphold values capable of promoting the country’s image abroad.
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“You are ambassadors of Nigeria. You carry with you the image of our nation and the dignity of our people. Let your conduct reflect discipline, humility, patience and integrity,” the vice-president said.
Shettima Emphasises Pilgrims’ Welfare
Shettima stated that the pilgrimage represents a covenant between the government and its citizens, stressing that authorities have a responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of all pilgrims.
According to him, the Hajj operation places a direct obligation on public institutions to guarantee smooth movement, dignity and comfort for Nigerians participating in the exercise.
“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship, needless anxiety or preventable setback,” he stated.
“We owe every Nigerian pilgrim dignity, safety, order, compassion and honour. Each pilgrim travels under the banner of our country, and each institution involved carries a sacred trust.”
The vice-president added that the success of the exercise would not only be measured by the number of flights operated but also by the comfort and welfare of pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
“The success of this operation will not be measured by the number of aircraft that depart alone, but by the comfort of our pilgrims, the orderliness of our processes and the absence of avoidable hardship,” he added.
Ododo Calls for Prayers for Nigeria
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo also urged the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity and economic development in Nigeria during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Ododo described the Hajj pilgrimage as a rare privilege that requires total devotion to Allah and strict adherence to the spiritual obligations associated with the exercise.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.