NAHCON inspects hajj aircraft ahead of Kebbi airlifting, asks pilgrims to avoid misconduct

Vice-President Kashim Shettima arrived in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday to inaugurate the first flight of the 2024 Hajj exercise.

Shettima, alongside Jalal Arabi, chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), inspected Flynas, a Saudi Arabian airline, which will transport intending pilgrims from the state.

Pilgrims from Kebbi, Nasarawa and the federal capital territory (FCT) are scheduled to depart today.

Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, Arabi said the commission has for the first time in many years made visas available before the commencement of airlifting.

Arabi said despite the challenges faced by the commission in reducing hajj fare, it has been able to secure “luxurious accommodation” at a lower price.

He said the commission also reduced the number of stays in Madinah from eight to four days, adding that all services to be delivered are of high standard.

“Today is undoubtedly a memorable day in the short life of the fifth board of NAHCON because we are about to put to bed the many strategies we have conceived for the safe delivery of a well-organised hajj season,” he said.

“We stand to be assessed for the promises we have made to spearhead an outing that would be recorded as one of the best in recent times. I assure you that all the essential services provided for the pilgrims are of high standard.

“Under the supervision of well-motivated and dedicated staff, staff that are eager to discharge their individual responsibilities, we have no doubt that our pilgrims will have reason to observe their worship in serenity and contentment.

“We had several challenges to overcome before getting to where we are today. The first major challenge subdued by this management while preparing for this year’s pilgrimage is in trying to reduce the 2024 hajj fare.

“Although the feat was achieved when calculated in dollars, this may not be noticeable when converted to naira. But the mathematicians and economists among us can attest to this fact.”

He called on intending pilgrims to avoid distractions and obey the rules of Saudi Arabia.

“I implore you all to avoid any conduct that would dent your image or image of our dear country. Remember the lessons you learned while preparing for this exercise and know that the time has come to implement them,” Arabi added.

“Also remember that you are travelling to a country where there is language barrier and a country where their laws are strictly followed for the general good of the congregation.

“Claiming ignorance will not save one’s neck when caught on the wrong side of the law.”

The chairman said the commission is committed to exploring wealth-creating ventures to contribute to its revenue.

“I urge the federal government to accept our candid reassurance that any support offered to NAHCON in this regard will have a positive replica effect on the economy,” he added.