Niger Prepares For Hitch-free 2023 Hajj

Niger State Pilgrims Welfare Board plans proactive measures to tackle the hitches in the airlifting of pilgrims for Hajj in 2023 operations.

The move was prompted by the lapses which characterised last year’s operations.

The executive secretary of the board, Alhaji Makun Lapai, stated this during a courtesy call by the new manager of the Minna International Airport Authority to his office.

He assured intending pilgrims of the readiness of the state government for the 2023 Hajj.

Makun Lapai who appreciated the visit commended the aviation team for their tireless efforts in satisfying the needs of the board during hajj activities.

He lamented the inability of the Minna International Airport to participate in airlift of pilgrims for the 2022 Hajj exercise. He said, “We don’t want the recurrence of last year’s ugly experience where the pilgrims almost missed the Hajj exercise.”

The executive secretary admitted that aviation challenges were numerous and assured the visiting team of possible solutions.

“We’ve identified areas of needs in terms of having successful hajj operations by next year. Next week we are visiting the airport for more inspection in preparation for the Hajj airlift,” he said.

Kutigi, who was accompanied by the management staff of the airport, appreciated the longstanding mutual relationship between the two organisations.

He commended the Niger State Pilgrims Board for successful 2022 hajj operations despite not airlifted from Minna International Airport, and called for early preparation by the board for the Hajj activities to avoid creating any obstacle that could generate challenges before the commencement of Hajj operations.