The inaugural flight for this year’s hajj yesterday left for Jeddah in Saudi Arabia aboard MaxAir flight VM1001.
The flight with 516 pilgrims from Borno state and 13 officials departed Maiduguri, Borno state capital to Jeddah at 17:31hrs.
NAHCON Chairman Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his sterling leadership and his support to the commission.
Mr. President’s backing, Hassan said, has helped in facilitating today’s (yesterday) event and the entire 2022 Hajj operation despite the short notice within which the fourth board had to organise “the emergency Hajj management.”
Alhaji Hassan hailed the Borno state Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum “who has always left his doors open to NAHCON’s demands and went the extra mile in ensuring a hitch free inaugural flight in the state capital.”
He said the development was an indication that Borno state is growing stronger from its challenges.
He urged the pilgrims to maximize the opportunity of going for Hajj by avoiding any action that would be detrimental to the exercise and to the image of Nigeria.
He said: “I therefore encourage you to exhibit exemplary conduct, setting the pace for others to emulate. Remember that first impression matters, hence, you should understand that you carry the responsibility of projecting a positive image of your country in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The way you set the pace will determine henceforth the kind of welcome treatment your fellow citizens will receive.”
He enjoined the pilgrims to abide by the regulations of Saudi Arabia.
“I appeal to you to respect instructions of your pilgrims’ officials because they are your guides and have been instructed on the needful. I beseech you to recall that this Hajj is a peculiar one because of the pandemic. As such, I hasten to advise you to abide strictly by all health regulations while in the Kingdom and even after your return.
“NAHCON has made the necessary arrangements for your comfort, do not hesitate to contact any of our official for assistance when in need, because they are there to serve you. Safeguard your valuables and do not carry along any prohibited item into Saudi Arabia, as a sign of honour to the host country,” the NAHCON boss said.