In a commendable effort to streamline preparations for the upcoming 2024 Hajj pilgrimage, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), spearheaded an intensive 10-day preparatory mission. The focus of the mission was to significantly reduce costs associated with services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.

Jointly conducted with State Pilgrims’ Boards Executive Secretaries or Chairmen and members of Private Tour Operators, the mission saw extensive negotiations with service providers in Makkah, Madinah, and Masha’ir. Chairman Arabi strategically sought concessions based on global economic realities stemming from the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Europe.

The outcome of these negotiations resulted in noteworthy reductions across various services. Accommodation costs in Madinah decreased from SR 2,080 to SR 1,665, while Makkah's accommodation costs dropped from SR 3,500 to SR 3,000. Additionally, the Masha’ir package costs for 2024 were reduced to SR 4,770, inclusive of VAT, compared to the SR 5,393 paid by the previous year’s pilgrims. Airfare costs were also successfully negotiated, securing a $138 discount compared to the previous year.

In recognition of the well-coordinated visit, the Commission was honored with an award by the 2024 Hajj and Umrah Conference and Exhibition Organizing Committee.

During a meeting on January 31, 2024, with State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards’ Executive Secretaries and Chairmen, Chairman Arabi expressed appreciation for the cooperation received during the visit. He provided updates on the outcomes of meetings with Mu’assasa and outlined plans for the upcoming Hajj, promising transparency and inclusiveness in all matters concerning the pilgrimage.

Notably, the inspection included 61 high-rise hotel buildings in Makkah and 31 in Madinah, totaling 92. Criteria included verifying the years since construction, maintenance status, proximity to the grand Mosque Haram, accessibility, and fire safety measures. The Commission ensured essential facilities such as bed spaces, emergency exits, elevators, and amenities for physically challenged persons were in place.

For catering services, NAHCON inspected 12 kitchens in Makkah and 14 in Madinah, emphasizing cooking capacity, experience, equipment, and evidence of partnership with Nigerian caterers.

Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Fatima Sanda Usara, reported on these developments, highlighting the comprehensive efforts made to enhance the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims.