Elated NAHCON boss hails Buhari for support, as first flight in 2 years departs for Hajj

The Chairman/CEO, National Hajj Commission, NAHCON, Alhaji Zhikrullah Hassan has hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for the support and encouragement that led to the airlifting of pilgrims for Hajj as planned.

He stated this during the launching its Hajj inaugural flight from the Maiduguri International Airport, Borno state.

The state Governor, Alhaji Babagana Zulum who was the special guest of honour prayed for the pilgrims before they departed.

Alhaji Hassan who was visibly happy enjoined the 43,08 pilgrims that will be airlifted to the holy land in the next two weeks to exhibit exemplary conduct, remember that they carry the responsibility of projecting a positive image of Nigeria in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He also advised all pilgrims to abide strictly by all health regulations while in the Kingdom and even after your return due to covid-19 pandemic.

“Let me begin by acknowledging Mr. President Alhaji Muhammadu Buhari for his sterling leadership and his ready support to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria whenever the situation demands. Mr. President’s backing has helped in facilitating today’s event and the entire 2022 Hajj operation despite the short notice within which the fourth board had to organize what I call the emergency Hajj management.

“I also acknowledge the tremendous support the NAHCON board has been enjoying from members of the National Assembly that are charged with overseeing the affairs of the Commission.

I thank the Borno state Governor, the indefatigable Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum who has always left his doors open to NAHCON’s demands and went the extra mile in ensuring that this inaugural flight takes off hitch free and as scheduled in the state capital. “

I commend NAHCON Board Members, the States’ Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, and all staff of NAHCON for working tirelessly towards the successful commencement of this year’s Hajj activities.”

“Today is undoubtedly a memorable day in Nigeria’s Hajj industry. Memorable because after a long time, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria is launching its Hajj inaugural flight from the ancient city of El-Kanemi, ancient city of Yerwa, a citadel of learning, the city of Maiduguri, the Borno state capital. It is indeed significant because by the special Mercy and grant of The Almighty, this development is an indication that Borno state is growing stronger from its challenges. Thanks to the staunch leadership of the peoples’ governor who has been on his feet throughout.

“Today is also memorable because after what seemed like eternity, for the first time in two years, the fourth board of NAHCON, led by my humble self, is about to dispatch its first set of pilgrims for the 2022 Hajj. All praise belongs to Allah, who makes all things possible as He wills. We have every reason to thank Allah because He made it feasible for us to conclude arrangements and commence flight operations in due time. With cooperation of all pilgrims, we will insha Allah conclude Hajj airlift despite the obvious time constraints.

“Today, after a long time of yearning, our pilgrims are about to embark on a long-awaited pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia, seeking the pleasure of Allah Subhanahu wata ala alone. After two years, I hereby congratulate our successful pilgrims for being among the few Muslims chosen by the Creator to proceed to Saudi Arabia to worship Him, chanting labbaik Allahumma labbaik. Certainly, this is a great opportunity after the covid-19 pandemic that grounded global activities, as the Almighty willed.

“Therefore, I call on our 43,008 intending pilgrims to maximize this special opportunity on acts of ibadah and to avoid any action that would be detrimental to their Hajj and to the image of Nigeria. Fortunately, all of you here present will be the first set of pilgrims from Nigeria to arrive Saudi Arabia for the Hajj season. I therefore encourage you to exhibit exemplary conduct, setting the pace for others to emulate. Remember that first impression matters, hence, you should understand that you carry the responsibility of projecting a positive image of your country in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The way you set the pace will determine henceforth the kind of welcome treatment your fellow citizens will receive.