NAHCON, Adamawa Engage Stakeholders On New Hajj Policies

The Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) have engaged stakeholders in Yola on new Hajj and Umrah policies and preparations for the next pilgrimage season.

The stakeholders’ meeting, hosted by the Acting Executive Chairman of the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission, Malam Abubakar Salihu, brought together community leaders and Islamic scholars to address concerns and clarify recent changes introduced by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Salihu said the Commission had commenced early preparations to ensure smooth registration, effective coordination and improved welfare services for intending pilgrims from Adamawa State.

He said the Commission was working closely with NAHCON and other relevant authorities to comply with the new requirements, particularly in visa processing, digital registration and service arrangements in Saudi Arabia.

The Acting Executive Chairman urged stakeholders not to panic, saying the reforms were intended to improve transparency, safety and service delivery.

“There is no cause for alarm. While the Saudi authorities are modernising their systems, we are proactive in our adaptation. These policies will ultimately lead to better service delivery and value for money for our intending pilgrims,” he said.

The NAHCON delegation, led by the Commissioner representing the North-East, Abba Jatau, briefed participants on the technical requirements of the new digital systems and stressed the need for strict compliance.

Jatau assured stakeholders that Nigeria remained an important partner of the Saudi authorities in Hajj operations.

NAHCON Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Mohammad Ali, also explained the financial and administrative implications of the new policies, assuring participants that the Commission was working to secure suitable arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims while ensuring an organised pilgrimage.

Participants described the engagement as timely and useful in addressing concerns and providing accurate information ahead of the next Hajj season.

The meeting ended with a commitment by NAHCON, the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission and other stakeholders to sustain regular communication and ensure effective implementation of the new Hajj policies in the state.