As criticisms trail the selection process of the approved 10 lead private tour operators for Hajj 2025, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has defended its decision, saying it is just and impartial.
The Commission led by Prof Saleh Usman is calling on anyone with evidence against the approval of the lead companies to present them on or before Friday, 3rd January 2025, noting that those petitions or complaints will be properly reviewed, with appropriate actions taken thereafter.
Muslim News had reported that NAHCON approved 10 lead operators for Hajj 2025, while urging the remaining licenced 108 private operators to align with the shortlisted ones for the successful conduct of the 2025 pilgrimage to the holy land.
Some stakeholders have, however, questioned the parameters for selecting the 10 lead-companies, questioning why some private tour operators who emerged top during Hajj 2024 didn’t make the list.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday, 1st January 2025 by the Commission and signed by the Assistant Director, Information and Publication, Hajia Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON said individuals and groups with credible evidence against the qualification of any of the lead companies should present them for review and re-investigation.
The statement reads, “NAHCON hereby invites individuals or groups with credible evidence justifying why any or all of the aforementioned companies are not qualified to be among the lead companies to come forward with their claims on or before Friday, 3rd January 2025.
“Such evidence will facilitate a review of the selection and thorough re-investigation that would enable the Commission take appropriate actions should the allegations be substantiated.
“In view of the above, written submissions, accompanied by verifiable evidence supporting the claims should be addressed to: ‘The Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)’, and delivered on or before Friday, 3rd January 2025.”
NAHCON assured members of the public that all submissions will be treated with confidentiality and fairness.
The Commission also appealed for cooperation and understanding of stakeholders and the public in achieving its objective.
