By Sam Otuonye
The Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has called for a sustained efficiency in Hajj administration, even as he assured his support for the Commission.
The Emir made this known when he paid a visit to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, on Wednesday September 30, 2026, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
During the visit, the royal father assured NAHCON of the traditional institution’s support while advocating for continuous improvements and sustained efficiency in the administration of Hajj exercises for Nigerian pilgrims.
The Emir commended the leadership of NAHCON for its ongoing efforts to reform Hajj operations, noting that managing the logistics for tens of thousands of pilgrims is a monumental task that requires high level of dedication, transparency, and strategic planning. He emphasized that the Zazzau Emirate, and the traditional institution at large, remains a critical stakeholder in mobilizing and sensitizing intending pilgrims to ensure a seamless exercise.
“Hajj is a significant spiritual journey, and the comfort, safety, and well-being of our people while fulfilling this religious obligation must remain paramount,” the Emir stated. “We are here to offer our prayers, counsel, and support to NAHCON. We also urge the commission to sustain its drive toward structural efficiency, early preparations, and transparent communication to overcome recurring operational challenges.”
Responding, the Chairman of NAHCON expressed deep gratitude to the Emir of Zazzau for the historic visit, describing it as a major morale booster for the management and staff of the commission.
The Chairman briefed the royal father on the commission’s latest policy frameworks, digital innovations, and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing costs, improving accommodation and feeding arrangements, and streamlining the airlift of pilgrims.
The NAHCON boss assured the Emir that the commission would look into the valuable insights provided during the interaction, reiterating NAHCON’s commitment to delivering a world-class Hajj experience that meets the expectations of the Nigerian government and the Muslim Ummah.
