By Shafi’i Sani Muhammad
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has reiterated his commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful 2025 Hajj operation. Speaking at a meeting with Chief Executives of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards held at NAHCON’s headquarters in Abuja, Prof. Saleh expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to gather and emphasized the Commission’s resolve to overcome challenges and enhance efficiency.
Prof. Saleh highlighted several challenges he inherited upon assuming office, including unresolved claims and operational hurdles, which had stalled progress in key areas. He assured stakeholders that efforts were underway to address these issues. “Alhamdulillah, today we are all here as a family, putting our heads together to solve the daunting challenges facing us and to work as a formidable team to support one of the pillars of Islam,” he said.
The Chairman revealed progress in resolving some contentious issues, including the refund of 150 Saudi Riyals for subpar electricity services during the 2023 Hajj. He also pledged to settle the 2% service charges owed to State Pilgrims Welfare Boards from the 2024 Hajj and to clear all outstanding legitimate claims in line with legal frameworks.
Prof. Saleh urged State Chief Executives to expedite remittances to NAHCON to facilitate early preparations for the 2025 Hajj, particularly in securing affordable and suitable accommodations in Madinah, Makkah, Mina, and Mashaer. He disclosed plans to embark on a nationwide tour to engage with governors, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to garner support for the 2025 Hajj. Additionally, he announced that the first pre-Hajj visit to Saudi Arabia would take place in January 2025, with a delegation comprising NAHCON officials and State Pilgrims Welfare Boards to finalize agreements with service providers and inspect facilities in Jeddah.
The NAHCON Chairman emphasized the importance of collaboration, describing the staff and stakeholders as the Commission’s strongest pillars. He urged all parties to work together to provide Nigerian pilgrims with a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience. “I came here with good intentions and a bag full of plans to change and reposition the Commission for the better. Let us open a new page and make NAHCON and State Pilgrims Welfare Authorities exemplary institutions for the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims,” he added.
The Commissioner in charge of Operations, Prince Anofi Olarewaju Elegushi, presented updates on the 2025 Hajj calendar, including a 51-page operational guide from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. He urged stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the guidelines and adhere to timelines.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Policy, Personnel Management, and Finance, Prince Aliu Abdulrazak, announced that the Chairman had approved the commencement of refund payments to States after reconciliation with NAHCON’s Finance and Accounts Division.
The meeting concluded with prayers for divine guidance and success. Prof. Saleh reaffirmed his commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure effective service delivery, emphasizing peace and cooperation as vital elements for the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.