The Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, led a delegation of commissioners on a courtesy visit to Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Radda, at the Katsina State Government Lodge in Abuja. The meeting aimed to discuss strategies for improving the 2025 Hajj experience.
Key issues addressed during the meeting included Hajj fares, airlift arrangements, medical care, Basic Travel Allowance (BTA), and accommodation. Professor Usman solicited Governor Radda’s support in convincing the Federal Government to reconsider issuing pilgrims’ BTA through ATM credit cards during Hajj. This move aims to ease the financial burden on pilgrims and facilitate a smoother Hajj experience.
Governor Radda assured the NAHCON team that he would present these requests and concerns at the upcoming meeting of the Northern Governors’ Forum. He also pledged to seek the support of religious leaders to enhance public awareness on Hajj matters. Additionally, Professor Usman sought Governor Radda’s assistance in urging other state governments to submit lists of officials who prefer Tent-A accommodations to streamline the process.
The Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, appealed to State Pilgrims Welfare Boards to maintain the “first come, first served” departure policy after the completion of Hajj. This policy aims to ensure fairness and faster return for pilgrims.
The courtesy visit demonstrates NAHCON’s commitment to collaborating with state governments to ensure a successful and hitch-free 2025 Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. With the support of governors like Malam Dikko Radda, NAHCON is working tirelessly to address the challenges faced by pilgrims and provide a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience.