The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Usman, has appealed to journalists to deploy the media as a vehicle for promoting national cohesion and strengthening peace among Nigerians.
Usman made the call on Thursday during the 2025 Post-Hajj Lectures and Awards organised by the Independent Hajj Reporters in Abuja. He was represented at the event by Prince Anofi Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations.
Speaking on the theme, “For the Interest of the Pilgrims”, Usman encouraged journalists to ensure accuracy when reporting Hajj activities, warning against misinformation or personal attacks within the industry.
“Media is not to destroy the nation. Let us use media to build and foster unity, not to erode the harmony we already have. Please, before you publish, filter your information,” he said.
He underlined that truthfulness remains a core principle in Islam and cautioned that false reporting not only tarnishes reputations but also weakens governance.
The NAHCON chairman also applauded state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards and commissions for their cooperation, describing their collaboration as essential to the success of the 2025 Hajj exercise.
Delivering the keynote address, Ustaz Abubakar Siddeeq, Managing Director of Comerel Travels and Tours Ltd., called for a transformation of Nigeria’s Hajj operations through digitisation and a more humane approach.
He proposed a digital allocation system integrated with airline updates to streamline logistics and prevent pilgrims from being stranded. He further suggested the adoption of rail transport models, such as the Haramain High-Speed Railway, to ease pilgrim movement, supported by robust contingency plans.
Siddeeq also pressed for transparency in feeding arrangements, recommending hotel-based catering with rigorous oversight to guarantee nutritious meals.
According to him, the ultimate objective is to deliver Hajj operations that are dignified, efficient, and accountable, while safeguarding the comfort and dignity of pilgrims.
