IHR counsels NAHCON, other stakeholders on improved hajj operations

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6 months ago

THE Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has advised operators of the Nigerian hajj community to choose the right service providers for the 2025 hajj exercise.

“We advise the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to create a template for state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards and private hajj operators to pick the best service providers that will offer excellent services to Nigerian pilgrims this year,” the IHR said in a statement from Makkah, Saudi Arabia, signed by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed.

The organisation acknowledged the challenges faced by NAHCON, but said the commission would be better off if it considers signing a long-term contract with Saudi-based service providers.

It said the advice became more important now in view of the uncertainties in hajj cost projections and the impact of the ongoing massive reconstruction and expansion projects in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

“Securing accommodation within a few kilometers from Haram in Makkah is becoming increasingly competitive.

“Agreeing to a three-year contract will save the Nigerian hajj industry from the yearly rituals of coming to Saudi Arabia to search, negotiate, and sign contracts with service providers, especially when it is certain that hajj operations are a yearly affair,” the IHR stated.

The organisation added: “Searching for service providers on a yearly basis affects the quality of services offered negatively because service providers are not sure of securing contracts or how many pilgrims they are expected to serve. Serving thousands of pilgrims requires adequate time for planning and preparation.

“For example, Malaysia recently signed a six-year contract with an airline and also signed a three-year agreement with its service providers in Masha’ir.

“The Nigerian delegation is expected to sign contracts with Saudi companies in a few days in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. States and private companies should negotiate three-year contracts to reduce hajj fares and create stability in hajj management in Nigeria.”