NAHCON Dedicates 2025 Hajj Success to States, Media – Elegushi
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has described the 2025 Hajj exercise as a major success, attributing the feat to the collaboration of state pilgrims’ boards, dedicated staff, and responsible reportage by the media.
Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofi Elegushi, who represented the NAHCON Chairman, made this known in Abuja on Thursday at the Independent Hajj Reporters’ 2025 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony.
Elegushi praised the synergy between state executives, stakeholders, and NAHCON directors, noting that without their support, the exercise could not have been achieved. He, however, cautioned against blackmail and unverified reports, urging journalists to continue to uphold truth and responsibility in their coverage of Hajj activities.
“Some went as far as calling the Hajj a ‘huge failure,’ despite the evident successes recorded. That is nothing but blackmail. We should not fight against our own Commission. Leaders will come and go, but NAHCON will remain. What we need is unity and progress,” Elegushi said.
He stressed that since 2024, the operational side of the Hajj had witnessed steady progress, with the percentage of success increasing in 2025 and prospects for even better results in 2026.
On the challenges encountered during the last exercise, the commissioner highlighted the strict policy changes from Saudi Arabia, particularly the new Hajj payment calendar which required full payment before pilgrims could embark on Umrah. He said while the transition was initially tough, NAHCON had managed it effectively to ensure reasonable results.
Acknowledging the role of the media, Elegushi expressed gratitude to journalists who covered the pilgrimage across Makkah, Madinah, Mina, and Arafah, urging them to avoid misinformation.
“Media is supposed to build the nation, not destroy it. You are closer to the people than we are, and once information spreads, it is difficult to take back. Please continue to report responsibly. In Islam, spreading falsehood is a sin,” he warned.
He also dedicated the success of the 2025 Hajj to the State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, whom he said showed understanding and cooperation even in difficult circumstances such as the payment of aviation premiums.
While admitting that perfection is not achievable, he maintained that with sustained effort and unity, Hajj operations would continue to improve.
The NAHCON commissioner concluded by calling on all stakeholders to view the Commission as a shared national asset rather than an institution to be undermined.
The event also featured lectures and recognition of stakeholders who contributed to the success of Hajj 2025.
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