VP SHETTIMA FLAGS OFF HAJJ 2025 AIRLIFT, URGES PILGRIMS TO UPHOLD NIGERIA’S PRIDE, DIGNITY

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Agency report

Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Friday urged Nigerian pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Hajj to uphold the nation’s honor and reputation throughout their time in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He gave the charge during the flag-off ceremony for the first batch of pilgrims at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State.

“Our dear intending pilgrims, know that you are more than spiritual travellers. You are ambassadors of Nigeria.

“You carry with you not only your faith but also the pride and dignity of this nation.

“Your conduct, your devotion, and your unity must reflect the values we hold dear.

This responsibility is not light. It is noble,” he said.

Shettima assured the pilgrims that President Bola Tinubu had made available all the necessary resources to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj.

He said that the president’s commitment reflects his administration’s covenant with the people to protect, support, and elevate every Nigerian in every sphere of life.

He, therefore, urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and all stakeholders in Hajj operations to work together to deliver the burden of expectations upon the government.

“The success of this Hajj operation rests on all our shoulders.

“If any of us falters, whether a logistical officer who overlooks a detail or a pilgrim who forgets the dignity of the flag he carries, the consequences could turn what should be a joyful experience into yet another avoidable catastrophe.

” We must not let that happen,” he said.

Shettima commended Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo for fostering the atmosphere of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and inclusion.

According to him, Uzodinma’s support is both heartening and symbolic of a nation coming into harmony with itself.

Earlier, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIAl), also commended Uzodinma for promoting religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence in the state.

” This event is a big statement that in this blessed country called Nigeria, we still have people like the governor of Imo State who stood up so tall to ensure that this programme holds in Imo.

“It is a testament to anybody who wants to see what Nigeria is all about.

“At this place, there are Christians and even nonbelievers who don’t even believe in Allah, all seated to be part of this national programme.

“It is not just a programme for the Muslims. I believe this is an important message to all and sundry that if we want our country to move forward, we have to respect one another,” he said.

The Sultan reiterated the importance of religious tolerance and harmony in moving the nation forward. (NAN)