By Soliu Oyesiji
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, has commended Independent Hajj Reporters for its sustained contribution to the development of Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry.
Yusuf gave the commendation at the 2026 Annual Hajj Lecture organised by Independent Hajj Reporters in Abuja, where stakeholders deliberated on emerging developments and business opportunities in the pilgrimage sector.
He described the organisation’s initiative as timely, noting that the Hajj and Umrah sector was undergoing significant structural changes that required greater collaboration, professionalism and informed stakeholder engagement.
The chairman said platforms such as the annual lecture were important for bringing together regulators, state pilgrims’ welfare boards, private operators and other stakeholders to examine emerging challenges and opportunities in the industry.
He assured that NAHCON would continue to engage relevant Saudi authorities to ensure that reforms in the Hajj and Umrah sector take into account Nigeria’s realities and interests.
The event, themed “Exploring Business Opportunities in the Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem,” also featured awards to outstanding pilgrims’ welfare boards and recognition of individuals who have contributed to the development of Hajj operations in Nigeria.
