By Maryam Zubair Abubakar
The Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Alhaji Abdullahi Saleh, on Wednesday
The visit was aimed at congratulating the Chairman on his assumption of office and reaffirming their commitment to supporting the Commission’s mandate.
Introducing the delegation, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Alhaji Anofiu Elegushi Olanrewaju, highlighted the Association’s desire to work collaboratively with the Commission to enhance service delivery to Nigerian pilgrims. He emphasized the need for cooperation, urging them to avoid rivalry and focus on unity.
Speaking on behalf of the Association, its President, Alhaji Mohammed Auwal Sulaiman, informed the Commission of their legal registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), which qualifies them as a recognized body in the Hajj and Umrah industry. He expressed the Association’s loyalty to NAHCON’s mandate, adding that the visit was an opportunity to establish their readiness to partner with the Commission for the benefit of pilgrims.
The Secretary of the Association, Alhaji Bemekun Rasheed Adekunle, lauded NAHCON for the recent refunds made to Nigerian pilgrims, describing it as an unprecedented move that demonstrated the Commission’s commitment to accountability. He pledged the Association’s solidarity with NAHCON, emphasizing their intention to support rather than compete with the Commission.
In her remarks, the Association’s Legal Adviser, Hajiya Kehinde, reiterated that transparency, accountability, and honesty are the core values underpinning the organization’s existence.
In response, the NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Alhaji Abdullahi Saleh, welcomed the Association and assured them of the Commission’s readiness to collaborate in serving Nigerian pilgrims effectively. He encouraged the group to maintain unity and focus on improving their performance in service delivery.
“The doors of the Commission are always open for dialogue and collaboration,” Alhaji Saleh stated, assuring the Association of NAHCON’s support in their endeavors to enhance Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment of both parties to improving the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and upholding the values of transparency and service excellence.