The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has waded into the seeming differences among the private hajj tour operators to ensure a hitch-free exercise during the 2024 operation.
Addressing a crucial meeting with members of the private operators on Friday, NAHCON Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi urged the stakeholders to resolve issues on the choice of service provider and Mu’assasa, that will serve their passengers.
It would be recalled that the leadership of the tour has requested for an opportunity to scout for alternative service providers outside the selected outfits recognized by NAHCON, citing the liberalization of the sector by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
A statement by Fatima Usara, assistant director, at the commission, disclosed that despite the disposition of NAHCON to approve the request of the operators, a discordant views among members are already frustrating the entire process.
Reacting to the ugly trend, the Chairman emphasized the importance of unity in decision-making among the tour operators to ensure a streamlined and effective process for Hajj operations.
Acknowledging the potential challenges arising from varied choices, NAHCON boss advised the travel agents to deliberate and reach a collective decision.
The Chairman reminded that NAHCON reserves the right to exercise its veto power to select a service provider that aligns with the overall interest and objectives of the Nigerian Hajj mission, as the body recognized by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, failure to resolve the lingering disagreement.
According to Malam Arabi, the call for a unified stand became pertinent to prevent unnecessary distractions during Hajj operations “when there would be so much operational pressures coming from various legitimate interests”.