Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has pledged to enhance the operations of the 2027 Hajj exercise, assuring the Borno State Hajj Commission (BOHC) of the government’s commitment to ensuring a hitch-free pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Zulum gave the assurances on Wednesday, in Maiduguri, while receiving this year’s report of the 2026 Hajj exercise from the Executive Chairman of the Borno State Hajj Commission, Prof. Yakubu Yunus, at the Government House in Maiduguri.

The governor commended the Commission for the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj operations, noting that the report would be carefully examined to consolidate the gains recorded and address the shortcomings identified during the exercise.

“I am deeply honored to receive the report of the 2026 Hajj operations. We shall study it, make an in-depth analysis of what happened during the exercise and proffer ways on how to improve it,” he said.

The governor stressed the importance of a stronger collaboration among members and officials of the Borno State Hajj Commission, emphasizing that preparations for the next pilgrimage should commence immediately.

Beyond the pledges to the intending pilgrims from the state, headded: “We have to start the preparation for the 2027 Hajj now; we don’t have time. I am ready to provide all the necessary support to ensure that the 2027 Hajj is conducted without any hitch.

“One of the major issue 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.”

The governor also underscored the need to improve the remuneration and welfare of members and officials of the commission to enhance efficiency and ensure effective service delivery.

Presenting the report, the Executive Chairman of the Borno State Hajj Commission, Professor Yakubu Yunus, described the 2026 Hajj exercise as one of the most successful in the state’s history, attributing the achievement to the dedication and collective efforts of the commission’s officials.

“The 2026 Hajj exercise is one of the best in the history of Borno State, and this success was made possible through the collective commitment and hard work of the commission’s officials,” Professor Yunus said.

He also expressed appreciation to governor Zulum for his unwavering support, particularly in facilitating befitting accommodation for Borno pilgrims in Makkah and providing Hadaya and Ihram for the pilgrims.