By Nura Ahmad Dakata The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, has declared that strict compliance with the Hajj calendar is non-negotiable, saying adherence to the schedule is crucial for effective planning and the successful conduct of the annual pilgrimage.
The NAHCON chairman made the remarks during an interview with newsmen while on a visit to Nasarawa State.
He noted that Nigeria has, over the years, faced challenges with poor adherence to the Hajj timetable, stressing that the commission is determined to reverse the trend by strictly complying with the calendar issued by the Saudi authorities.
“The calendar is sacrosanct because it is based on a well-structured arrangement. One of the problems we have always had in Nigeria is the lack of adherence to the calendar. This time around, we want to adhere strictly to the calendar as provided by the Saudis,” he said.
Ambassador Yusuf explained that the Hajj calendar is designed to facilitate proper planning by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which receives about two million pilgrims from across the world every year.
According to him, Saudi authorities undertake extensive preparations ahead of each Hajj season, including the provision of healthcare services, infrastructure, water supply, electricity, accommodation and transportation for pilgrims.
He emphasized that strict compliance with the approved timetable would enable both Nigerian and Saudi authorities to conclude all necessary arrangements on schedule, thereby ensuring a smoother and more efficient Hajj operation for Nigerian pilgrims.