The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), led by Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has announced plans to introduce a cashless Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) system to safeguard the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and enhance their overall experience.
The Commissioner for Policy, Personnel, Management, and Finance (PPMF) of NAHCON, Prince Mallam Abdulrazak Aliu, made the disclosure during an exclusive interview with a journalist in his Abuja office, shedding light on the commission’s plans to revolutionize the pilgrimage experience.
According to Prince Aliu, the cashless BTA system aims to protect pilgrims from currency fraudsters who have been targeting them during their pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. This innovative approach will provide a secure and convenient way for pilgrims to access their allowances, eliminating the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash and reducing the incidence of fraud.
He explained that NAHCON’s commitment to improving the welfare of pilgrims goes beyond the cashless BTA system. The commission is also working to enhance the feeding arrangements for pilgrims, ensuring they have access to nutritious and wholesome meals during their journey.
The Commissioner has assured stakeholders of the commission’s transparency in its dealings. “We are committed to being transparent in our operations and decision-making processes, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and involved,” he said.
As part of its efforts to boost staff morale, NAHCON has carried out staff promotions, recognizing and rewarding deserving staff members. “We believe that our staff are our greatest assets, and we are committed to supporting their growth and development,” Prince Aliu added.
According to Prince Aliu, “The 2026 pilgrimage promises to be better than the previous ones, especially in the area of enhanced welfare for pilgrims and synergy with critical stakeholders of the commission.” He assured that the commission is undergoing serious reforms aimed at improving the overall experience of pilgrims.
The introduction of the cashless BTA system and enhanced welfare services demonstrates the NAHCON’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims. Under the leadership of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, NAHCON is poised to continue innovating and improving the pilgrimage experience for generations to come.
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