Ahead of the 2023 Hajj exercise, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Mutawwif Company of African Non Arabs otherwise known as Muassassah have sealed an agreement to provide improved feeding and catering services for Nigerian pilgrims at the Mashair.
The agreement, which is part of the preparation for 2023 Hajj, will see Nigeria’s pilgrims will pay less at the discount rate of five per cent compared to what was charged last year.
NAHCON chairman Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan signed the agreement on behalf of Nigeria’s intending pilgrims while the chairman of Mutawwif, Ahmad Sindy, signed for his company.
The deal focused on the roles expected of the two parties during the Hajj and it also covered the services to be provided to the pilgrims in the areas of enlightenment, guidance, movements/transportation especially during the Mashair.
NAHCON chief executive Hassan, in a press statement signed by assistant director, information and publications, Mousa Ubandawaki, warned the Saudi’s company against the repeat of ugly experience Nigerian Pilgrims went through last at the Mashair. “Now that this year’s Hajj has begun, we want to know what services to expect at the Mashair to know what to tell our pilgrims at home.
“We are asking for better services this year and we want it at a reduced price. Though, we acknowledged the amount of investment made to upgrade the facilities at the Mashair which are long term,” he said.
In his response, the chairman of Mutawwif Company, Ahmad Sindy, said last year’s unfortunate incident won’t be repeated as they are more committed to the welfare and well-being of pilgrims through improved facilities and eco-friendly settings that would make pilgrims feel good.
“We will also upgrade the quality of food in terms of calories and weight. In addition, we have contracted a well-known nutritionist to ensure that the service delivery is best,” he said.
