By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, visited Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko at his residence in Sokoto to seek advice and support for the commission’s ongoing efforts to improve the Hajj exercise.
During the visit, which took place in Gawon Nama, Sokoto, Prof. Usman explained that the tour is part of NAHCON’s nationwide campaign to foster collaboration and awareness about the annual Hajj exercise.
He acknowledged Senator Wamakko’s significant contributions to Hajj operations and requested his intervention in key areas, including:
– Reducing Hajj Fares: The chairman attributed the high cost of Hajj fares to escalating foreign exchange rates and sought Senator Wamakko’s help in negotiating with airline operators to lower costs.
– Timely Payment of Hajj Fares: Prof. Usman urged state governments to encourage their Hajj agencies to sensitize pilgrims about early payment deadlines, which Saudi authorities have set for January 2025.
– Improved Pilgrim Accommodations: He highlighted that late registration by pilgrims often results in accommodations far from the Holy Mosque in Mecca and emphasized the need for early registration.
The chairman also proposed implementing a Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS) in collaboration with Islamic banks to allow prospective pilgrims to save incrementally over time for their pilgrimage.
### **Allocations and Challenges**
Prof. Usman revealed that Nigeria has been allocated 95,000 Hajj slots for the 2025 exercise but expressed concerns about the slow pace of payments, which might jeopardize the country’s ability to secure all the slots.
He suggested adopting payments in Nigerian currency instead of foreign exchange to reduce costs and streamline the process.
Senator Wamakko, while welcoming the NAHCON delegation, commended the chairman on his appointment and expressed concern over the rising costs of Hajj fares. He urged NAHCON to advise the government on strategies to address the issue.
Wamakko also criticized the $400 allowance provided to pilgrims, describing it as inadequate. He promised to liaise with relevant authorities to explore ways of improving the situation.
The senator emphasized the importance of patience and compassion in dealing with pilgrims, particularly while in the Holy Land. He also assured NAHCON of his continued support for their efforts to enhance the Hajj experience for Nigerians.
The NAHCON chairman was accompanied by several national commissioners, directors, and Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency officials, including:
– Prof. Abubakar Abubakar Yagawal
– Bukar Babagana
– Sirajo Saleh Usman
– Abubakar Ka’oje
– Abubakar Abdulmalik Diggi
– Rabi’u Na-Allah
– Dr. Danbaba Haruna
The courtesy visit underscores the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to address challenges in Hajj operations. With Senator Wamakko’s intervention and NAHCON’s proactive measures, the commission aims to ensure a more affordable and efficient pilgrimage experience for Nigerians.
