By Soliu Oyesiji
The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has called for far-reaching reforms, stronger collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and greater unity among operators to improve Hajj and Umrah administration in the country.
The call was made on Wednesday during the association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting in Abuja, themed: “Reforming the Tour Business for Effective Hajj/Umrah Administration in Nigeria.”
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Abdulfattah Adeniyi Abdulmajeed, urged stakeholders to resist divisions within the industry, warning that the proliferation of associations would weaken operators’ collective voice.
He stressed that the Hajj and Umrah industry required experienced professionals, describing it as a specialised sector that combines Islamic rites, tourism, hospitality and national representation.
Abdulmajeed also commended NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, for efforts to reposition the commission and appealed to the federal government to continue appointing competent professionals to oversee Hajj affairs.
In his address, AHUON National President, Imam Abdullateef Ekundayo, said the association had secured significant achievements ahead of the 2026 Hajj, including the recovery of members’ funds trapped under the Saudi IBAN system through sustained engagement with Nigerian and Saudi authorities.
He added that AHUON also facilitated direct airlift arrangements with Flyadeal, Saudi Airlines and UMZA Air, which reduced delays and ensured competitive fares for members.
Ekundayo, however, identified challenges encountered during the 2026 Hajj, including difficulties with Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform and the activities of unlicensed operators, which he said undermined confidence in the industry.
He called on NAHCON to establish a joint technical engagement with Saudi authorities to address digital platform challenges before the 2027 Hajj and urged regulators to ban advertisements by unlicensed Hajj and Umrah operators.
The AHUON president also charged members to embrace professionalism, accountability and innovation, insisting that preparations for the 2027 Hajj should begin immediately with a commitment to delivering quality services to Nigerian pilgrims.
