The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims, addressing recent media reports regarding its contractual engagement with Saudi-based service provider, Mashariq al Dhahabia.
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In a statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs, Muhammad Ahmad Musa, NAHCON clarified that its contractual decisions were guided by transparency, accountability, and the need to ensure seamless services for Nigerian pilgrims.
The Commission explained that following the Hajj exhibition in Saudi Arabia, it entered into an agreement with Mashariq al Dhahabia on January 17, 2025, to provide ground and Masha’ir services for state pilgrims. However, operational challenges, particularly issues with Mashariq’s listing on the Saudi Visa Portal, Nusuk, prompted NAHCON to seek an additional service provider to prevent potential delays.
Despite Mashariq’s subsequent efforts to address the challenges, NAHCON maintained that its decision to engage another provider was in the best interest of Nigerian pilgrims, ensuring strict compliance with Saudi deadlines and uninterrupted service delivery.
Reacting to media reports suggesting legal action by Mashariq al Dhahabia, NAHCON described the move as an attempt to secure a monopoly over the service contract. The Commission emphasized that it remains committed to fostering a competitive environment to enhance service quality and affordability for Nigerian pilgrims.
“NAHCON will not succumb to pressure or misinformation aimed at causing confusion. Our focus remains on delivering the best possible experience for our pilgrims while upholding contractual integrity,” the statement read.
Reiterating its dedication to excellence and transparency, NAHCON assured Nigerian pilgrims that it would continue working tirelessly to provide them with the highest standards of service for their sacred journey.