SHETTIMA flags off plane carrying first 500 pilgrims for 2026 Hajj

Monday, May 4, 2026 - Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has charged intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to conduct themselves in ways that reflect positively on the country, warning that their actions abroad will shape Nigeria’s image on the global stage.

Shettima gave the directive on Sunday, May 3, 2026, during the official flag-off of the Hajj airlift at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The event marked the beginning of this year’s pilgrimage operations, with about 500 pilgrims from Kogi State departing for Saudi Arabia on the inaugural flight. Authorities say over 50,000 Nigerians are expected to participate in the 2026 Hajj exercise.

Speaking at the ceremony, the vice president described the pilgrimage as more than a religious obligation, noting that it also carries national responsibility.

“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,” he said.

He stressed that while pilgrims are on a spiritual journey, they are also representatives of the country and must comply strictly with the laws of the host nation.

According to him, the Hajj exercise is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens, explaining that while authorities must ensure safety and coordination, pilgrims must uphold the nation’s values.

“Our duty is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes this journey without avoidable hardship or anxiety,” Shettima added.

The vice president also reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensuring the welfare and protection of Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Other government officials at the event echoed similar concerns about safety, coordination, and discipline throughout the exercise.

Governor Usman Ododo urged pilgrims to use the opportunity to pray for peace and development in Nigeria, while Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, represented by Captain Mamud Abdullahi, assured that necessary measures had been put in place to guarantee smooth flight operations.

Also speaking, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the commission remains focused on improving transparency and ensuring a seamless experience for all pilgrims.

The statement was shared on the official page of Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President.