FG determined to improve Hajj operations, says Shettima

FG determined to improve Hajj operations, says Shettima

Nigerian Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, yesterday said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to ensuring the improvement of Hajj operations.

He spoke during the National Hajj Stakeholders Summit organised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Hajj Institute of Nigeria (HIN) in collaboration with Jaiz Bank in Abuja.

Represented by Bashir Maidugu, Shettima said the administration has consistently provided the necessary support due to the importance of the spiritual exercise to millions of Nigerians.

He highlighted the support to include diplomatic engagements with Saudi authorities, facilitating foreign exchange allocations for pilgrims and securing better terms and conditions for Nigerians.

“The recent landmark approval of special interventions to cushion the impact of rising costs on 2024 Hajj operations is a clear testimony to this administration’s dedication.

“In the face of global economic challenges and sharp fluctuations in the value of the Naira, Mr President personally approved critical measures to protect the interests of intending pilgrims. He has ensured that this sacred obligation remains within reach for thousands of Nigerian Muslims,’’ he said.

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NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, called on stakeholders to remain united and committed to providing effective and efficient services to the “respected guests of Allah”, thereby reinforcing the renewed hope for Nigerian pilgrims.

He assured them that NAHCON is dedicated to fostering strong partnerships, collaborations and teamwork to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.

The commission boss thanked President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima for their continuous support and timely interventions in resolving the challenges facing the 2025 Hajj.

He listed such support to include the significant provision of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash.

According to him, this will provide great relief to pilgrims, operators and the regulator.

According to the NAHCON chairman, the summit provided a crucial platform for relevant stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to collectively examine and address matters vital to the sustainable future of Hajj operations.

He expressed confidence that the summit would provide practical administrative and operational frameworks for Hajj financing in Nigeria.

He expressed the commission’s readiness to provide seamless 2025 Hajj operations, beginning with the inaugural flight on May 9.

“The Federal Government has licensed four airlines for the airlift of over 40,000 pilgrims, excluding more than 14,000 traveling with tour operators.