The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has flagged off the inaugural airlift of 2026 FCT pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony held at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Mahmoud urged the 315 pilgrims in the first batch to uphold discipline, obedience, and patriotism throughout their spiritual journey.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media to the FCT Minister of State, Austine Elemue, the minister described the commencement of the airlift operation as a significant milestone and a reflection of the FCT Administration’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise.
She prayed for divine guidance, protection, and spiritual fulfilment for the pilgrims during their stay in the Holy Land.
Mahmoud also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the FCT Administration and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister further commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for what she described as his steadfast leadership and support for Hajj administration in the territory.
Highlighting the spiritual significance of Hajj as one of the five pillars of Islam, Mahmoud urged the intending pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and the FCT while in Saudi Arabia.
“You should see yourselves as Allah’s guests. Remain steadfast in obedience to Allah, abide by the rules and regulations of both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, and continue to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of our nation,” she stated.
She congratulated the pilgrims for successfully completing the screening and orientation exercises organised by the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, noting that their patience and commitment demonstrated readiness for the pilgrimage.
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The minister also advised the pilgrims to safeguard their travel documents, especially their e-passports and Nusuk cards, warning that Saudi authorities had made it clear that “No Nusuk, No Hajj.”
According to her, losing the Nusuk card could result in serious inconveniences, including denial of access to key Hajj activities.
Mahmoud commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and Saudi-based service provider Mashariq Al-Dhahabiyya for facilitating the early delivery of Nusuk cards to Nigeria ahead of the pilgrimage.
She also charged officials and adhoc staff of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board accompanying the pilgrims to remain diligent in carrying out their responsibilities and prioritise the welfare of the pilgrims.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, and the Director of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Kadiri Edah.
