Arafat: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has organized a special prayer session for Nigeria as part of its activities to mark the day of Arafat. This is as pilgrims all over the world converged on Mount Arafat, signaling the peak of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the prayer session was anchored by members of the National Ulama Team of the commission, some lawmakers, NAHCON management, and pilgrims in attendance. It was organized to seek Allah’s favor on the country. The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Amb. Ismail Yusuf, said that the commission decided to organize the prayers due to various social and political challenges in the country. Yusuf was represented by NAHCON’s Commissioner for Planning, Research, Information, and Library Services, Prof. Abubakar Yagawwal, who emphasized the necessity for Nigerians to turn to Allah for divine intervention amidst these challenges.
He urged Nigerian pilgrims to include the country in their prayers while praying for themselves. A member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Sani Madaki, commended the leadership of NAHCON for organizing the prayer. Prayers were offered in Arabic and English, as well as several Nigerian languages, including Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Nupe, and Afemai.
Meanwhile, the NAHCON boss extended greetings to Nigerian pilgrims as they joined millions of Muslims across the world on the sacred Day of Arafat. Yusuf highlighted that the Day of Arafat stands as the pinnacle of Hajj, a day of mercy, forgiveness, supplication, and total submission to Almighty Allah. He reflected on the values of humility, sacrifice, patience, and faith, urging deep reflection and sincere repentance.
He expressed that NAHCON has been continually studying the experiences of previous and current Hajj operations to improve its processes and enhance the welfare and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims. Yusuf noted the advancements made from previous Hajj operations, emphasizing that there is always room for improvement. He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to addressing operational challenges observed during the Hajj exercise.
The NAHCON boss praised various stakeholders, partners, and pilgrims for their support and cooperation. He acknowledged the critical support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing the successes in the 2026 hajj airlift and management to his leadership. Similarly, he extended appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima for his role in policy implementation. Yusuf assured Nigerian pilgrims of adequate measures for a safe and seamless return journey after Hajj.