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By: Manoah Kikekon
New Tribunal, Transparent Pricing, and Fair Airline Deals Among Key Changes to Improve Pilgrimage Experience
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| Meka |
In a major push to improve the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims, the House of Representatives has approved a far-reaching reform plan targeting the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. The changes aim to enhance service delivery, ensure financial transparency, and prevent mismanagement in pilgrimage operations.
A major highlight of the reforms is the creation of a Hajj Tribunal to resolve disputes involving NAHCON, tour operators, and pilgrims. “This tribunal will give pilgrims a fair platform to seek justice for contract breaches, financial issues, or service failures,” said Sada Soli, head of the ad-hoc committee behind the report.
Another critical change is the renegotiation of the Bilateral Air Agreement, which currently allows Saudi airlines to transport 50% of Nigerian pilgrims. Lawmakers argue that this deal unfairly sidelines local carriers. “Nigerian airlines have proven their capacity and should get a fair share of Hajj airlift contracts,” the report stated. The House has ordered a review to ensure a more balanced arrangement.
To boost accountability, NAHCON must now publish a detailed breakdown of Hajj costs, ensuring no hidden fees. The commission must also standardize fees for all pilgrims, with clear explanations for any variations. Additionally, lawmakers are pushing for an increase in the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA), currently set at $500, to better support pilgrims during their journey.
The reforms also call for decentralized accommodation management, allowing state boards and private operators to help negotiate fair hotel prices. A service rating system will ensure only approved providers meet pilgrims' needs, while a refund policy will protect pilgrims from substandard services.
To address past inefficiencies, NAHCON must set up a dedicated complaints unit for lodging grievances on accommodation, food, and transport. The commission must also streamline visa distribution, ensuring tour operators receive visas matching their pilgrim numbers, with public records to prevent fraud.
Lawmakers warned NAHCON against unilateral decisions, urging collaboration with tour operators, airlines, and state boards. The commission must also enforce strict compliance with Hajj standards among service providers.
On feeding arrangements, the House wants Nigerian caterers hired to prepare culturally suitable meals, with strict hygiene checks. In a major accountability move, anti-graft agencies have been tasked to audit NAHCON’s N90 billion 2024 Hajj subsidy, including an investigation into claims that the commission sponsored 1,000 officials using the funds.
These sweeping reforms are expected to transform Hajj operations, ensuring Nigerian pilgrims enjoy a smoother, more transparent, and better-organized pilgrimage.