The Humanitarian Times

By Abdulkareem Haruna

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has called for immediate preparations for the 2027 Hajj, committing his administration to strengthening the commission’s operational capacity and addressing administrative friction.

Governor Zulum made the pledge in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Jul.22,  while receiving the official report of the 2026 Hajj exercise from the Executive Chairman of the Borno State Hajj Commission, Professor Yakubu Yunus.

Commending the commission for its general conduct during the pilgrimage, the governor stated that the findings in the report would be studied to build on recorded successes and correct identified gaps.

​“We shall study it, make an in-depth analysis of what happened during the exercise, and proffer ways on how to improve it,” Zulum said.

Insisting that early planning is key to avoiding administrative bottlenecks, the governor directed that preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage commence immediately. He also tied institutional efficiency to personnel welfare, noting that the remuneration and working conditions of commission officials require a review.

While appraising the overall execution of the 2026 operations, Governor Zulum pointedly underscored the need for tighter internal cohesion within the agency.

​“One of the major issues of concern is the lack of proper coordination and synergy among the members and other officials of the commission, and this has to be addressed,” he stated.

​Presenting the document earlier, Professor Yunus characterized the 2026 pilgrimage as one of the most successful in the state’s history, crediting the outcome to staff dedication. He also thanked the state government for its logistical interventions, particularly the provision of pilgrim accommodation in Makkah, along with Hadaya and Ihram provisions.

The brief ceremony was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani; Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; alongside members of the state executive council and senior government officials.