By Daniel Tyokua
The Minister of state for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud has inaugurated a seven man committee for the 2025 Hajj operations.
Speaking at the inauguration, Mahmoud said the team will be chaired by her Senior Special Assistant on administration and strategy, Dr Abdullahi Kauranmata.
She said the committee is expected to, among others ensure general supervision and coordination of all FCT Hajj activities from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia until the return of the last flight to Nigeria.
Mahmoud explained that the panel will provide advice and guidance during the exercise, ensuring that the welfare of the FCT pilgrims is given special attention throughout the exercise; and ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims.
In a statement issued on Thursday, by the Special Assistant on media to the minister, Austine Elemue, said Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most significant spiritual journeys for Muslims, and it is the duty of the committee to ensure that every intending pilgrim from the FCT embarks on the sacred journey with the highest standards of care, dignity, and efficiency.
According to the statement, the Minister expressed confidence in the ability of the committee members.
It reads in parts, “This year, we are guided by three key pillars: efficiency, transparency, and safety. Every committee member has a role to play in upholding transparency and professionalism in all aspects while in the Holy Land,”
Mahmoud revealed that other responsibilities to include ensuring adherence to all rules governing the 2025 Hajj operations; 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 FCT with recommendations.
Responding, chairman of the committee, Dr Abdullahi Kauranmata, described the trust placed in them as sacred, saying the committee is not just planning a trip but facilitating a profound religious obligation for thousands of FCT residents.
He, however, urged the Pilgrims Welfare Board to see the committee’s work as complementary.
Kauranmata assured the Minister that the committee would make the FCT contingent a model for Hajj operations in Nigeria.
Other members of the committee include Muhammad Haruna Aris, Director of Funds FCT; Danlami Ibrahim, Deputy Director Audit; Awwal Ijkoro, representing the traditional institution; Mudan Bebeji, representing the Ulamas; Jamila Maishanu, representing the community; and Na’Allah Ado, Assistant Director, FCT Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board, who served as secretary of the committee.
