Mai-Hajj, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), has urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to commence early preparations for the 2025 Hajj to address challenges faced in previous operations.
In a statement released in Abuja, the group’s Chairman, Malam Garba Dambatta, emphasized that proactive planning is essential to avoid the service delivery lapses experienced during the 2024 Hajj.
According to Dambatta, delayed arrangements in the past have resulted in failures, particularly in securing quality accommodations for pilgrims in Makkah, Madinah, and Mina. He also highlighted issues with delayed inbound flights in several states during the 2024 Hajj, attributing them to inadequate preparation.
“In view of the need to achieve a hitch-free operation in 2025, Mai-Hajj calls on NAHCON to establish a monitoring committee comprising experts and stakeholders to address critical areas of the operation,” he said.
He outlined key focus areas, including aircraft selection, accommodation, transportation, security, and media engagement for effective public sensitization on Hajj 2025 arrangements.
Dambatta expressed optimism that with early and strategic planning, NAHCON could significantly enhance the experience for Nigerian pilgrims in the 2025 Hajj exercise.