Mahmoud Flags Off Inaugural Flight for 2026 FCT Pilgrims
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has flagged off the inaugural flight of the 2026 Hajj pilgrims from the FCT to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In a press released signed by Austine Elemue, SA Media To FCT Minister of State, May 7, 2026, Speaking during a farewell ceremony for the first batch of 315 pilgrims at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, the minister urged intending pilgrims to uphold the values of discipline, obedience, and patriotism throughout the exercise.
Mahmoud described the commencement of the airlift as a historic milestone and a testament to the FCT Administration’s commitment to ensuring a seamless, safe, and successful Hajj operation for pilgrims from the territory. She also prayed for divine guidance, protection, and spiritual fulfilment for the pilgrims during their stay in the Holy Land.
The minister expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the FCT Administration, reaffirming its alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.
She also commended the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his leadership and unwavering support, noting that his efforts have positioned the FCT as a leading player in Hajj administration in Nigeria.
Highlighting the spiritual importance of Hajj as one of the five pillars of Islam, Mahmoud urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and the FCT.
“You should see yourselves as guests of Allah. Remain steadfast in obedience to Him, abide by the rules and regulations of both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, and continue to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of our nation,” she said.
She congratulated the pilgrims for successfully completing the screening and orientation exercises organised by the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, describing their perseverance as a sign of readiness for the sacred journey.
The minister further advised the pilgrims to safeguard their travel documents, particularly their e-passports and Nusuk cards, warning that Saudi authorities have made compliance mandatory.
“No Nusuk, No Hajj,” she stressed, noting that loss of the card could result in serious challenges, including denial of access to Hajj activities.
Mahmoud also commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi-based service provider, Mashariq Al-Dhahabiyya, for facilitating the timely delivery of Nusuk cards, describing the move as a significant improvement in Hajj logistics.
She charged officials accompanying the pilgrims, including staff and ad hoc personnel of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, to carry out their duties with diligence and prioritise the welfare of the pilgrims at all times.
Dignitaries at the event included the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Amb. Ismail Abba Yusuf, and the Director of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Kadiri Edah, among others.
