By Soliu Oyesiji
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has constituted a 17-member Central Security Committee to coordinate security arrangements for the 2026 Hajj operations.
Chairman of the commission, Ismaila Abba Yusuf, inaugurated the committee in Abuja, charging members to ensure the safety, security and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims during both the onshore and offshore phases of the pilgrimage.
Yusuf urged the committee to adopt proactive and preventive measures, including strict monitoring of Hajj departure centres to screen out undesirable elements and prevent drug-related offences and human trafficking.
He also advised members to discharge their duties with diligence and integrity while ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims receive the best possible services during the Hajj.
The NAHCON chairman further directed the committee to work closely with security and intelligence agencies on issues with national security implications in order to safeguard pilgrims and protect Nigeria’s image abroad.
Responding, chairman of the committee, Lawal Rabiu, thanked the NAHCON leadership for the confidence reposed in the members and assured that the committee would collaborate with relevant agencies to gather intelligence, coordinate operations and address potential security challenges ahead of the 2026 Hajj.
