Hajj stakeholders have urged journalists selected to cover the 2026 Hajj operations to maintain professionalism for effective reporting of the spiritual exercise.
The call was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the inauguration of the National Media Team by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Islamic scholar Abdullahi Musa emphasized that members of the media team are responsible for truthfulness, justice, and fairness in their reporting.
“The role of the media is to propagate the truth. As Muslims, we must always remember our faith guides our professional conduct. Report what you know to be true and avoid doubtful matters,” Musa said.
Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Planning, Research, Information, Statistics, and Library Services (PRSILS), described the media team as one of the most important committees for Hajj operations.
“Through the media, the public will know what is happening in all areas of Hajj operations. People rely on you to accurately report events at home and abroad,” he said.
Yagawal urged journalists to cover all aspects of accommodation, feeding, and other Hajj activities.
“I appeal to you to fear Allah in performing your duties. Report what is good, and advise us on what needs correction,” he said.
Prince Anofiu Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate, and Licensing (OIL), urged journalists to avoid sensationalism and fake news.
He stressed that as representatives of Nigeria, they should uphold professionalism and moral conduct in their reporting.
