2024 hajj: NAHCON suspends seat allocation to private tour operators for 48 hours

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has suspended seat allocation to private tour operators (PTOs) for the next 48 hours.

In a statement on Wednesday, Fatima Usara, assistant director of public affairs at NAHCON, said the suspension followed accusations made by some private tour operators.

Usara said some PTOs have been making some accusations despite being unable to achieve the required pass mark for seat allocation.

However, the NAHCON spokesperson did not state the accusation made by the PTOs.

She added that the hajj commission has advised private operators with complaints to submit” well-documented facts and figures” to back their claims.

“It would be recalled that on Sunday 10th of December 2023, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) informed the public that the federal government of Nigeria has facilitated the obtainment of additional allocation of 30 slots for the Private Tour Operators (PTO) sector from the previous 10 slots allocated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” the statement reads.

“In collaboration with the ministry of Hajj and Umrah thereafter, parameters were set to choose the best on a scale of 40 highest scores.

“The list of successful PTOs was released by the commission on the said Sunday with an assurance to oversee formation of amicable alliances with the remaining 70. A new development has forced the commission to take a decisive decision.

“In commitment to transparency and integrity, NAHCON has decided to suspend further activities related to the allocation of Hajj seats to the PTOs for the next 48 hours.

“This decision comes in light of recent accusations leveled by some PTOs unable to meet the required pass mark. The commission is fully aware that there may be dissenting voices which have expectedly begun to manifest.

“In view of this development, the NAHCON helmsman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi announced to the PTOs that members with legitimate grievances pertaining to the qualification of any tour operator are encouraged to present well-documented facts and figures supporting their claims.

“NAHCON is dedicated to ensuring a fair and impartial investigation into these allegations.

“Upon receipt of the grievances, an extensive investigation will be carried out by an independent body. If the accusations are substantiated and found to be true, the necessary actions will be taken to rectify the situation.

“However, it has been emphasized that if the allegations are frivolous, NAHCON warns that there will be consequences for those found to be making baseless claims.”

Usara said the action taken by the commission was to ensure transparency in the selection process of private tour operators for the 2024 hajj.

The NAHCON official said the 48-hour suspension of operations is a temporary measure, adding that the commission is committed to ensuring Nigerian Muslims have a great pilgrimage experience.