By Musa Baba Adamu
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Licensed Private Tour Operators (LPTOs) has met to discuss preparations for the 2025 Hajj operations.
According to a statement issued by the Assistant Director, Information of NAHCON, Hajiya Fatima Usara, said the discussions were to give and receive updates on preparations for the 2025 Hajj operations.
The statement quoted Prof. Abdullah Saleh Usman as calling for discussions that will focus on promoting understanding towards improving service delivery Nigerian private pilgrims.
He enjoined all members at the meeting to remember why all members are in Saudi Arabia for the sake of intending pilgrims.
He welcomed observations, questions, suggestions and constructive criticisms.
The statement added that: ‘It was disclosed at the meeting that 14th February 2025 is the deadline for remittance of Hajj fare into the Tour Operators’ IBAN accounts in order to meet up with visa issuance which would begin by 19th February 2025.
“Similarly, it was resolved that LPTOs are free to affiliate with any of the 10 leading companies across the zones except where the lead company had reached the 2,000 pilgrims limit. Hence the 10 lead companies remain unchanged.
“NAHCON and the LPTOs reaffirmed their commitment to adhere to their common interest which is providing best services for pilgrims while maintaining inclusivity in the process. Both parties expressed need to accommodate one another for a seamless Hajj exercise to be achieved.”
