The House of Representatives took decisive action on Thursday, July 11, by establishing an ad-hoc committee to scrutinize the operations of the Nigeria Hajj Commission (NAHCON) and the Federal Capital Territory Administration Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board regarding the conduct of the 2024 Hajj exercise. This development follows allegations of inadequate preparation and execution raised by Hon. Mohammed Umar Bio (APC, Kwara), prompting the motion.
Chaired by Hon. Sada Soli (APC, Katsina), the committee has been tasked with completing its investigation within two weeks and presenting findings to the House. Hon. Bio underscored the significance of the Hajj pilgrimage, stressing its importance as one of Islam's five pillars and NAHCON's responsibility under the NAHCON Act to ensure efficient service delivery.
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Bio highlighted concerns over the welfare, organization, guidance, and monitoring of approximately 50,865 Nigerian Muslim pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj exercise. He criticized the substantial costs incurred by pilgrims, NAHCON's budget allocation for 2024, and the support received from both the Federal Government and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He expressed disappointment over the perceived substandard performance of NAHCON and the FCTA Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Makkah and Mina.
He warned that failure to address these issues could tarnish Nigeria's reputation in future Hajj exercises and on the international stage. The investigation aims to rectify shortcomings and ensure improved management of future pilgrimages, thereby safeguarding the interests of Nigerian citizens participating in Hajj.
