By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has called for far-reaching reforms in Nigeria’s Hajj administration to build a transparent, efficient and pilgrim-focused system capable of delivering world-class services.
Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Summit on Post-2026 Hajj Review and NAHCON Reform in Abuja, Mahmoud said the theme, “Repositioning Nigeria’s Hajj Industry as a Model of Service Excellence,” reflects the country’s determination to improve the quality of services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.
She described Hajj as not only a sacred religious obligation but also a complex operation that requires careful planning, effective coordination and high standards of service delivery.
According to her, every pilgrim deserves a safe, dignified and comfortable experience, stressing that achieving this requires transparency, accountability and commitment from all stakeholders.
Mahmoud commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for organising the summit, noting that reviewing the successes and shortcomings of the 2026 Hajj exercise is essential to strengthening public confidence and improving future operations.
She reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to reforms that enhance public service delivery and called for stronger collaboration among governments, regulatory agencies, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, service providers and religious leaders.
The minister urged participants to draw from practical experiences and global best practices, expressing hope that the summit would produce recommendations that promote efficiency, innovation, accountability and greater satisfaction for pilgrims.
Mahmoud also praised President Bola Tinubu for advancing institutional reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the administration’s emphasis on transparency and people-centred governance is strengthening key national institutions, including those responsible for Hajj administration.
She equally acknowledged the leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for creating an environment that encourages reforms and excellence in public service.
Earlier, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the summit was convened not only to assess the 2026 Hajj exercise but also to reposition Nigeria’s Hajj administration for better performance.
He noted that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is transforming global pilgrimage administration, urging stakeholders to use the forum as an opportunity for accountability by identifying achievements, addressing shortcomings and developing practical solutions for future Hajj operations.
