NAHCON Chairman Seeks Improved Services for Nigerian Pilgrims
Jerry Adesewo
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, is committed to improving services for Nigerian pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
During his ongoing working visit to the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and several Pilgrims’ Muttawif Establishments, Arabi explored ways to enhance the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
At the IsDB, Arabi expressed gratitude for the technical assistance provided to NAHCON in 2019. He also requested the engagement of skilled Nigerian manpower, such as veterinary doctors and manual labourers, to offer services during Hajj, particularly in the Hadaya (animal sacrifice) program.
Additionally, he asked IsDB to open a market for Nigeria to export sacrificial animals.
Arabi visited several Pilgrims’ Muttawif Establishments to evaluate their services and explore alternative service providers. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has created opportunities for countries to select Mutawwif companies of their choice, encouraging competition and better services for pilgrims.
Arabi met with Dr. Abdulrahman Bejawi, Deputy Minister of Hajj in charge of Umrah and Ziyara in Madina, to discuss the welfare and safety of Nigerian pilgrims. He also accepted the Makkah Route project offered by the deputy minister, making Nigeria one of the seven countries to benefit from this initiative.
Arabi signed agreements with General Car Syndicate, United Agents Office, and Adillah Establishment of Madinah to enhance services for Nigerian pilgrims. These agreements cover various aspects of the Hajj experience, including transportation, accommodation, and catering.
The NAHCON Chairman’s efforts to improve services for Nigerian pilgrims are expected to result in a more comfortable and rewarding Hajj experience.