Mahmoud Inaugurates FCT 2025 Hajj Committee, Urges Members to Prioritise Transparency , Pilgrims’ Welfare

As preparations gather momentum for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has inaugurated a seven-member Ministerial Committee with a clear charge: deliver a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling experience for all intending pilgrims from the FCT.

Inaugurating the committee in her office, Dr. Mahmoud stressed the critical role of transparency, professionalism, and safety in the successful execution of the annual religious exercise.

“This year, we are guided by three key pillars: efficiency, transparency, and safety,” the Minister said. “Every committee member has a duty to ensure that our pilgrims receive the highest standards of care and coordination throughout their spiritual journey.”

The newly inaugurated committee is chaired by Dr. Abdullahi Kauranmata, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Administration and Strategy. Other members are drawn from various sectors including government, traditional institutions, the Ulama, and the wider community.

Dr. Mahmoud reminded the members that the Hajj pilgrimage is a deeply spiritual obligation for Muslims, and the FCTA bears the responsibility of making the process seamless for its citizens. She urged the committee to learn from past operations and provide innovative solutions to emerging challenges.

The committee’s Terms of Reference include: Overall coordination and supervision of FCT pilgrims from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia and back; Ensuring compliance with Saudi Arabia’s new Hajj policies and procedures; Prioritising pilgrims’ welfare, safety, and security throughout the operation; Providing strategic advice and timely interventions during the exercise; and
Submitting a detailed report to the Minister of State, complete with actionable recommendations

In his response, Dr. Kauranmata described the task before the committee as a sacred one.

“This is not just logistics planning; it is a facilitation of a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience for many. We take that responsibility seriously,” he said. “We pledge to make the FCT contingent a national model for excellence in Hajj operations.”

He also called for synergy with the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, emphasizing collaboration and mutual support in achieving the committee’s goals.

The full list of committee members includes:

Muhammad Haruna Aris – Director of Funds, FCTA

Danlami Ibrahim – Deputy Director, Audit

HRH Awwal Musa Ijkoro – Representative of the Traditional Institution

Mal. Mudan Umar Bebeji – Representative of the Ulamas

Hajiya Jamila Aliko Maishanu – Representative of the Community

Na’Allah Ado – Assistant Director, FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (Secretary)

The committee is expected to commence work immediately as the FCTA ramps up preparations to ensure a hitch-free and impactful Hajj for the 2025 season.