The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that it has progressed significantly in processing entry visas for the 2024 intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
Malam Jalal Arabi, the Executive Chairman of NAHCON, made this statement during the Maiden Stakeholders Summit on Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah Industry held on Thursday in Abuja.
Arabi disclosed that the commission had set May 16 for the inaugural flight of the 2024 Hajj.
Approved air carriers are prepared to transport all Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia from over 10 departure centers.
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“We, as the board of NAHCON, along with our team, will meet with the air carriers later today to finalize the departure centers, and our partners in the aviation sector will also join us,” he stated.
Arabi emphasized that all pilgrims from states would visit Madinah for a maximum of four days before the commencement of Hajj rites, marking a significant change from past Hajj operations.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in providing effective and efficient services to the pilgrims, acknowledging the challenges faced in preparation for this year’s Hajj.
Approximately 65,500 pilgrims from State Pilgrims Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Tour operators are expected to participate in this year’s Hajj.
Under his leadership, NAHCON is committed to partnering with stakeholders and working as a team for the successful conduct of the 2024 Hajj operation.
Arabi commended Vice-President Kashim Shettima for his continued support and expressed appreciation to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, for his guidance to NAHCON’s leadership.
The summit, organized by the Hajj Institute of Nigeria established by NAHCON, aimed to foster cooperation and collaboration between NAHCON, state pilgrims boards, tour operators, and all stakeholders in the Hajj industry.
Prof. Mohammed Maiturare, the Rector of the institute, highlighted the importance of open dialogue and knowledge sharing in addressing challenges and ensuring the successful execution of the 2024 Hajj.
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