The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) held a crucial meeting yesterday with representatives of the airlines responsible for transporting pilgrims during the 2023 Hajj, to resolve the ongoing dispute over the settlement of ticket fees. The meeting was convened to find a lasting solution to the impasse that has delayed payment to the airlines.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director Public Affairs of the Commission, Fatima Sanda Usara, said Present at the meeting were representatives from Aero Contractors, Max Air, Air Peace, Azman Air, and FlyNas. The dispute stemmed from the volatility of the exchange rate during the 2023 Hajj operations. While the air ticket fee for the pilgrimage was set at $2,026 at a concessionary exchange rate of ₦456 per dollar, resulting in a total fare of ₦923,856 per pilgrim, the dollar rate surged significantly by the time the airlift concluded, complicating payment arrangements.
The airlines had insisted on being paid in dollars, as stipulated in their contracts, but a series of previous negotiations ended in a deadlock. In a bid to resolve the issue, Vice President Kashim Shettima intervened, urging the airlines to accept payment in naira due to the prevailing dollar scarcity.
During the consultative meeting, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management, and Finance, Alhaji Aliu Abdulrazaq, commended the airlines for their patience and long-term partnership. He expressed optimism that the meeting would yield a positive outcome for all parties involved.
Commissioner for Operations, Prince Anofi Elegushi, acknowledged that the delay in payments was overdue, while praising the airlines for their cooperation. He noted that the main obstacle was the airlines’ demand for payment in dollars but expressed hope that their willingness to now accept naira payments would resolve the issue.
In response, the airline representatives voiced their frustrations but agreed to the proposed naira payment, marking a significant breakthrough in resolving the payment stalemate.
NAHCON is expected to meet with other key stakeholders soon to discuss preparations for the 2025 Hajj.
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9th September 2024