Mahmoud Inaugurates Hajj Committee, Tasks Them on Expertise, Dedication
By Freda Aideyan
In preparation for the 2025 Hajj exercise, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has inaugurated a Ministerial Hajj Committee, calling on them to showcase expertise, dedication, and unwavering commitment to ensuring the welfare and successful participation of FCT pilgrims.
The Minister of State made the call while inaugurating the Seven-Man Ministerial Committee, Thursday, 15th May, in her office in Abuja
She said that the Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most significant spiritual journeys for Muslims, stating that the Committee has to ensure that every intending pilgrim from the Federal Capital Territory embarks on this sacred journey with the highest standards of care, dignity, and efficiency.
Dr. Mahmoud expressed confidence in the ability of the Committee members, adding that the 2025 pilgrimage is guided by three key pillars: efficiency, transparency, and safety.
Mahmoud said, “Every Committee member has a role to play in upholding transparency and professionalism in all aspects while in the Holy Land.”
While urging the Committee to proactively address issues from past experiences, the Minister of State listed the terms of reference to include; the general supervision and coordination of all FCT Hajj activities from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia until the return of the last flight back to Nigeria, provision of advice and guidance during the operation, ensuring that the welfare of FCT pilgrims is given premium importance throughout the exercise; and ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims.
Other responsibilities include: ensuring adherence to all rules governing the 2025 Hajj operations, ensuring compliance with all new policies and programmes introduced by the Saudi Authorities for the 2025 Hajj, and submitting a report to the Minister of State with recommendations, among others.
Responding on behalf of the members, Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Abdullahi Kauranmata, described their trust as sacred.
He stressed that the Committee is not just planning a trip but facilitating a profound religious obligation for thousands of FCT residents.
However, he called on the FCT Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board to see the Committee’s work as complementary, just as he called for open dialogue, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Kauranmata assured the Minister that the Committee would make the FCT contingent a model for Hajj operations in Nigeria.
