By GARBA MUHAMMAD

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has announced plans to hold the 10th edition of its annual Hajj Lecture on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in Abuja, with discussions expected to focus on emerging business opportunities in the Hajj and Umrah sector.

IHR, a registered faith-based civil society organisation that reports on and promotes awareness within the Hajj and Umrah industry, said the annual event will take place at the auditorium of the National Mosque, Abuja, beginning at 10 a.m.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 17, 2026, and signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, the organisation said this year’s lecture has the theme, “Service to the Pilgrims,” while the main topic is “Exploring Business Opportunities within the Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem”.

According to the statement, the lecture is designed to broaden conversations around the economic opportunities within the Hajj and Umrah industry while sustaining attention on improved service delivery and the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.

Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to attend as Special Guest of Honour, while the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mahmoud Mariya Bunkure, will serve as Chief Host.

The Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef bin Mohammed Albalawi, is billed as Guest of Honour.

The event will be chaired by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf.

Managing Director of Quantum Microfinance Bank Limited, 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.

IHR said the occasion will also feature the presentation of awards to outstanding Hajj administrators and other individuals who distinguished themselves in the service of Nigerian pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj.

State governors who provided support towards the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj will equally be recognised for their contributions.

The annual Hajj Lecture has over the years provided a platform for stakeholders, administrators, service providers and other players in the Hajj and Umrah industry to discuss issues affecting pilgrimage operations and explore ways of improving services to Nigerian pilgrims.