Soliu Oyesiji.
Uncertainty has emerged over the utilisation of the additional 6,000 Hajj slots allocated to Nigerian tour operators, following indications that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah did not extend the deadline for additional camp bookings linked to the slots.
Sources familiar with the development said the absence of an extension has created logistical constraints, raising concerns that the extra allocation may not be utilised at all. The situation is further complicated by the deadline for uploading pilgrims’ data, which takes effect today, February 8.
Another source informed Hajj Reporters that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has written to NAHCON that the 6000 slots cannot be used due to time restrictions.
The window for completing required procedures continues to narrow which has make the issue of additional slots a mere news item.
Stakeholders have called for urgent clarification from relevant authorities to avert potential losses and ensure that the additional slots do not go to waste.
