Emir backs NAHCON reforms, demands better Hajj qdministration

The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, has pledged the support of traditional institutions for ongoing reforms by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, urging the commission to sustain efficiency, transparency and early preparations for future pilgrimages.

The Emir made the call during a courtesy visit to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Bamalli said effective Hajj administration required foresight, discipline, transparency and meticulous planning, given the large number of Nigerian pilgrims participating in the annual pilgrimage.

He stressed that the welfare, safety and spiritual fulfilment of pilgrims must remain central to every policy and operational decision concerning Hajj.

The Emir said the Zazzau Emirate was ready to support efforts aimed at improving the administration of Hajj and educating intending pilgrims on the requirements for a successful pilgrimage.

> “We are here to offer our prayers, counsel, and support to NAHCON. We also urge the Commission to sustain its drive toward structural efficiency, early preparations, and transparent communication to overcome recurring operational challenges,” Bamalli stated.

He said traditional institutions had an important role to play in sensitising intending pilgrims and promoting compliance with Hajj guidelines.

According to him, stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and NAHCON would help improve the experience of Nigerian pilgrims.

Responding, the NAHCON chairman expressed appreciation to the Emir for the visit, describing the royal endorsement as encouraging to the commission’s management and staff.

Yusuf said the support and counsel of traditional rulers remained valuable to NAHCON’s efforts to improve service delivery and strengthen stakeholder engagement.

The chairman also briefed the Emir on reforms being implemented by the commission, including policy changes, digital innovations and partnerships aimed at improving operational efficiency.

He said the initiatives were also designed to reduce costs, improve accommodation and feeding arrangements and ensure a smoother airlift process for Nigerian pilgrims.

Yusuf reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to developing a modern and pilgrim-centred Hajj administration system that meets global standards and the expectations of Nigerian pilgrims.

He assured the Emir that the observations and recommendations made during the visit would be considered as the commission intensifies preparations for future Hajj operations.

The engagement further underscored the importance of collaboration between traditional institutions and public agencies in improving services that directly affect citizens.

NAHCON said the partnership would also help strengthen public confidence and advance efforts to provide a more efficient Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims.