Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has pledged to mobilize governors across Nigeria to ensure timely payment of Hajj fares for pilgrims ahead of the 2025 pilgrimage.
A statement indicates that Governor Zulum was speaking during a courtesy visit to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, headquarters in Abuja, where he assured the Commission of his full support in achieving a seamless Hajj operation.
Governor Zulum, who also leads the North-East Governors Forum, committed to encouraging regional collaboration with NAHCON to enhance preparations and avoid last-minute challenges.
He further advised the Commission to engage state governors early in the process to prevent misinformation and strengthen coordination.
Acknowledging past challenges, particularly in VIP management, Zulum urged NAHCON to assign competent personnel for VIP affairs and ensure an equitable distribution of spaces. Despite hurdles faced in the previous Hajj, he commended NAHCON’s efforts and expressed confidence in the success of the 2025 pilgrimage.
NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, welcomed the governor’s support and provided updates on preparations, including secured spaces for Nigerian pilgrims.
He assured that plans are well underway, with many VIP slots already reserved.
Meanwhile, NAHCON has announced that over 52,000 Hajj slots have been secured for Nigerian pilgrims, urging all intending participants to complete their payments promptly before the quota is exhausted.
