Independent Hajj Reporters has advised Nigerian Hajj operations community to choose the right service providers for this year’s Hajj exercise.
In a statement from Makkah, Saudi Arabia, by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed.
acknowledges the challenges being faced by NAHCON, owing to instability in its leadership, but said the commission would be better off if it considers signing a long-term contract with Saudi-based service providers.
“We advise the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to create a template for State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Private Hajj Operators to pick the best service providers that will offer excellent services to Nigerian pilgrims this year.”
Ibrahim Mohammed said the call becomes more important now in view of the reality of uncertainties in Hajj cost projections and the impact of the ongoing massive reconstruction and expansion projects in the Holy City of Makkah and Medina in Saudi Arabia.
‘Securing accommodation within a few kilometers from Haram in Makkah is becoming increasingly competitive.’
“Agreeing to a 3-year contract will save the Nigerian Hajj Industry from the yearly rituals of coming to Saudi Arabia to search, negotiate, and sign contracts with service providers, especially when it is certain that Hajj operations are a yearly affair,” IHR said.
The CSO added that searching for service providers on a yearly basis negatively affects the quality of services offered because service providers are not sure of securing contracts or how many pilgrims they are expected to serve. Serving thousands of pilgrims required adequate time for planing and preparation and also connote certainty.
For example, Malaysia recently signed a 6 years contract with Airline and also signed 3 years agreement with its service providers in Masha’ir.
The Nigerian delegation is expected to sign contracts with Saudi companies in few days at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“States and private companies should negotiate 3-year contracts to reduce Hajj fares and create stability in Hajj management in Nigeria,” IHR said.
Rel/Adamu Yusuf
