The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has officially signed the 2024 (1445AH) Hajj Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The momentous signing ceremony, which took place in Jeddah, brought together key dignitaries from both nations.
Led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, the Acting Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, the Nigerian delegation engaged in a historic pact-signing event with their Saudi counterparts.
On the Saudi side, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Taufiq Al-Rabiah, spearheaded the host country’s contingent, highlighting the mutual commitment to fostering cooperation.
Prior to the official signing, the Ministers engaged in a constructive dialogue to address pertinent issues. Nigeria, recognizing challenges in Mina, sought lasting solutions for the shortage of tents and pressed for more favorable terms for Nigerian carriers during Hajj airlifts.
Additionally, an invitation was extended to the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah to visit Nigeria.
In response, Dr. Rabiah acknowledged the challenges faced in Mina and affirmed ongoing efforts to maximize the use of the available two million square meters for the annual influx of over two million pilgrims.
The Saudi Minister expressed unwavering support for measures aimed at enhancing pilgrims’ services and accepted the invitation to visit Nigeria, further solidifying bilateral ties.
The signing ceremony saw the active involvement of prominent figures such as the Nigerian Consul-General in Jeddah, Ambassador Bello Hussaini Kazaure, senior officers from the Nigerian Mission in Saudi Arabia, and NAHCON representatives.
The collaborative spirit displayed during the discussions underscored the shared commitment to ensuring a smooth and fulfilling Hajj experience for all pilgrims.
As the ink dried on the 2024 Hajj MoU, both nations look forward to strengthened ties and collaborative efforts in the realm of pilgrimage logistics.
The assurance of a visit from the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah to Nigeria adds a promising dimension to the burgeoning relationship, fostering optimism for future collaborations in the years to come.
Signed:
Fatima Sanda Usara,
Assistant Director, Public Affairs,
NAHCON
