By Usman Yahaya Ismail
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has intensified preparations for the 2026 Hajj with a focus on pilgrims’ education and spiritual guidance.
This was disclosed in a release issued by Fatima Sanda Usara of the Information and Publications Division of NAHCON.
The Chairman of NAHCON, Amb. Ismail Yusuf Abba, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment during a strategic meeting and the inauguration of the 2026 Hajj Ulama Team, held on April 22, 2026, at Hajj House, Abuja.
The engagement brought together approximately 120 Islamic clerics from across the country, including Prof. Mansur Ibrahim Sokoto, Sheikh Bala Lau, Sheikh Abdulmuhyi Nasir, Sheikh Abdulrahman Olanrewaju Ahmed, Sheikh Nasir Adam, Sheikh Muhammad Kabir Haruna Gombe, Sheikh Usman Usman Dahiru Bauchi, and Dr. Isa Akindele Solahuddeen.
Amb. Abba tasked the clerics with supporting the Commission by conducting sensitization programmes for intending pilgrims both before and during the Hajj.
He stated that the sessions should focus on providing a clear understanding of Hajj rites to enable pilgrims to perform their religious obligations correctly.
The Chairman also stressed the need for continuous guidance and timely responses to issues that may arise during the pilgrimage, particularly those affecting the validity of the Hajj.
He added that the Ulama Team will organize special prayer sessions at key locations, including Arafat, for Nigeria’s leaders, peace, unity, security, and economic development.
Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Bashir Umar urged the clerics to encourage prayers for peaceful elections, noting that the Hajj period coincides with activities leading up to the 2027 general elections.
The clerics emphasized the importance of mental preparedness, unity, patience, and devotion among pilgrims, describing the Hajj as a transformative act of worship.