Vice-President Kashim Shettima has admonished Nigerian intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to preserve the country’s pride and dignity during their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Shettima gave the admonition on Friday at the inauguration of the first batch of intending pilgrims at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo.
“Our dear intending pilgrims, know that you are more than spiritual travellers. You are ambassadors of Nigeria.
“You carry with you not only your faith but also the pride and dignity of this nation.
“Your conduct, your devotion, and your unity must reflect the values we hold dear. This responsibility is not light. It is noble,” he said.
Shettima assured the pilgrims that President Bola Tinubu had made all necessary resources available to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj.
He said the President’s commitment reflects his administration’s covenant with the people to protect, support, and elevate every Nigerian in every sphere of life.
He therefore urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and all stakeholders in the Hajj operation to work together to meet the government’s expectations.
“The success of this Hajj operation rests on all our shoulders.
“If any of us falters, whether a logistical officer who overlooks a detail or a pilgrim who forgets the dignity of the flag he carries, the consequences could turn what should be a joyful experience into yet another avoidable catastrophe. We must not let that happen,” he said.
Shettima commended Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo for fostering an atmosphere of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and inclusion.
According to him, Uzodinma’s support is both heartening and symbolic of a nation coming into harmony with itself.
Earlier, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), also commended Uzodinma for promoting religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the state.
“This event is a big statement that in this blessed country called Nigeria, we still have people like the governor of Imo State who stood tall to ensure that this programme holds in Imo.
“It is a testament to anybody who really wants to see what Nigeria is all about.
“At this place, there are Christians and even non-believers who don’t even believe in Allah, all seated to be part of this national programme.
“It is not just a programme for the Muslims. I believe this is an important message to all and sundry that if we really want our country to move forward, we have to respect one another.”
The Sultan reiterated the importance of religious tolerance and harmony in moving the nation forward.
Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo described the event as a significant milestone in the state’s aviation history.
“For us in Imo State, it’s a moment of pride. The airport, built over 40 years ago through communal efforts, reflects our history and how far we have come.
“The steps we took to reposition the airport for international operations bring joy to the people of Imo State and the neighbouring states.”
He thanked President Tinubu for all the approvals that made the inaugural flight possible, highlighting the economic significance of the flag-off, which he said will open investment doors for the state.
The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, described the inaugural flight-the first of its kind in the South East region-as a testament to the level of religious harmony the Imo governor is promoting in the region.
He called on the intending pilgrims to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations guiding the pilgrimage during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Usman revealed that the inaugural flight will convey 315 intending pilgrims from Abia, Bayelsa, and Imo to Saudi Arabia.
He urged them to purify their intentions, maintain discipline, and represent Nigeria positively throughout the spiritual exercise.
He also advised the intending pilgrims to prioritise their health, particularly by staying hydrated due to the expected high temperatures in Saudi Arabia.
“You are about to undertake one of the most important journeys of your lives as Duyufur-Rahman (Guests of Allah).
“Represent Nigeria well. Obey your officials. Follow the rules of the Kingdom and those of your country,” he said.
“Keep yourselves away from harm, whether natural or man-made, by obeying guidelines. Drink plenty of water and juice to remain healthy,” he added.
Usman disclosed that a total of 64,188 Nigerian intending pilgrims had registered for the 2025 Hajj as of May 9, comprising those sponsored by states and private tour operators. (NAN)
