By Abdul-Ganiyy Akanbi

National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has successful airlifted 32,549 pilgrims, representing 79.1% of the total intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

This development, according to a statement signed by its Assistant Director, Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara and issued on Wednesday, was achieved through 79 flights operated since the commencement of the airlift operations on May 9, 2025.

The statement reads in part: “Many states have concluded their airlift operations including Adamawa and Plateau, those with one flights only to complete their operations today include Bauchi and Gombe States, with 30 pilgrims each left to be airlifted. Jigawa State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are also expected to complete their pilgrim airlift today (Wednesday).

“Kwara State, with 137 pilgrims remaining, will conclude by joining a Kano Max Air flight this afternoon.

“Meanwhile, Benue pilgrims will join intending pilgrims from the South-South section to undertake a combined and only flight from the region on May 23rd, marking the last phase of the airlift for the area.

“Importantly, no flight cancellations have been recorded since the airlift began. However, deliberate minor delays were arranged to allow for the proper clean-up and decongestion of hotels in Madinah especially with the surge in arrivals. Such cleanup procedures are standard operational routines following vacation of rooms during the Hajj season.

“This goes unnoticed during initial airlift periods but cause misinterpretations at peak periods when a higher number of pilgrims are on the ground, requiring immediate turnover.”

The NAHCON commended the Nigerian intending pilgrims and entire communities for their goodwill, patience and prayers, and reaffirmed its resolve to ensure a smooth Hajj for every pilgrim.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday met with His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, at the Vatican, where the two leaders exchanged warm greetings ahead of the official mass marking the beginning of the Pope’s pontificate.

The meeting took place shortly before the solemn installation mass for Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and spiritual head of the Roman Catholic Church, scheduled for May 18.

President Tinubu arrived in Rome earlier in the day in response to a special invitation extended by the Vatican. The new Pope, who once served in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s, expressed deep affection for Nigeria in his letter to President Tinubu, describing the country as “a nation particularly dear to me.”

According to the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the invitation underscored the significance of Tinubu’s presence at a time of global challenges, marked by escalating conflicts and humanitarian concerns. “The Holy See believes President Tinubu’s attendance is important in showing unity, peace, and global cooperation at this critical moment,” Onanuga said.

President Tinubu was accompanied by a delegation that included prominent Nigerian Catholic figures such as Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, Archbishop Alfred Martins, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah.

The encounter between the Nigerian leader and the Holy Father is seen as a significant gesture of diplomatic goodwill and interfaith solidarity at a time when religious tolerance and peacebuilding remain pressing global priorities.

By George Mgbeleke

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, has extended his warm congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, on his election as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Senator Kalu described the emergence of Pope Leo XIV as “a divine intervention at a time when the world desperately needs spiritual renewal, peace, and unity.”

He said, “The election of Pope Leo XIV is a powerful sign of hope to billions of Catholics and indeed all people of faith across the world. His Holiness brings with him a legacy of humility, compassion, and commitment to justice that will serve humanity well in these uncertain times.”

Kalu urged the new Pontiff to continue the Church’s vital role in promoting global peace, interfaith dialogue, and moral leadership. He also prayed for divine wisdom and strength as the Holy Father begins his sacred mission.

“As a Catholic and public servant, I recognize the critical role of spiritual leadership in healing divisions, inspiring nations, and advancing a more just and compassionate world,” the former Senate Chief Whip added. “I look forward to the reign of Pope Leo XIV as a season of renewal for the global Church and a call to conscience for world leaders.”