The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a registered faith-based civil society organisation reporting on and promoting awareness within the Hajj and Umrah industry, will host its 10th annual Hajj Lecture and Awards on August 20, 2026, at the National Mosque Auditorium in Abuja, focusing on business opportunities within the pilgrimage ecosystem.
In a statement signed by the National Coordinator Ibrahim Muhammad, the organisation said this year’s lecture is themed “Service to the Pilgrims,” with the topic “Exploring Business Opportunities within the Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem.”
The event will also feature the presentation of awards to outstanding Hajj administrators and individuals who distinguished themselves in the service of Nigerian pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj.
State governors who provided support for the 2026 Hajj will also be recognised for their contributions.
The lecture will take place at the auditorium of the National Mosque and will commence at 10 a.m.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is the Special Guest of Honour, while the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mahmoud Mariya Bunkure, will serve as Chief Host. The Saudi ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef bin Mohammed Albalawi, is the guest of Honour.
The event will be chaired by the Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf.
The managing director of Quantum Microfinance Bank Ltd, Aliyu Buhari Ali, will deliver the lecture.
Ali previously served as group head, SMEs, and financial inclusion at Jaiz Bank and government affairs manager at Sterling Financial Holdings Company.
Packaged by Temitayo Afolabi
