Abuja: The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has expressed her support for a significant policy overhaul proposed by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The proposal aims to transition Nigeria’s national pilgrims’ quota to a Business-to-Business (B2B) tour operator model.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mahmoud voiced her backing during a policy communication engagement in Abuja, focusing on the proposed reform. She described the shift as a strategic move to boost efficiency and streamline Hajj activities. Mahmoud emphasized the importance of a phased implementation to facilitate Nigeria’s adaptation to the new system and ensure seamless Hajj operations. She welcomed the proposed grace period, which would allow local stakeholders the necessary time to adjust effectively.
Earlier, Prof. Muhammad Ndagi, representing the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), explained that the B2B model is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms. These reforms initially aimed for a 98 per cent migration of Nigeria’s Hajj quota to private tour operators by 2027. However, Ndagi, the Zonal Commissioner representing the North-Central Zone at the commission, argued that an immediate 98 per cent overhaul was operationally unfeasible and could disrupt Nigeria’s existing administrative and financial structures, potentially increasing costs for pilgrims.
Following diplomatic discussions, NAHCON secured a crucial concession from Saudi authorities on Aug. 18, allowing for a gradual transition. This transition will begin with a 30 per cent migration to the B2B model for the 2027 Hajj, with full integration planned for subsequent years. Ndagi explained that the phased timeline would enable Nigeria to enhance regulatory oversight, develop private operators’ capacity, and complete essential administrative digitisation without jeopardizing pilgrims’ welfare.
Ndagi also highlighted the strict deadlines set by Saudi authorities, with Sept. 26 as the final date to upload registered pilgrims, leaving no room for extension. He noted that NAHCON had briefed the Vice President and engaged with state pilgrims’ welfare boards, agencies, and senior government officials on the developments. He urged the FCT administration and state boards to expedite pilgrim registration, health screenings, and payments to meet the non-negotiable deadline.
In response to the operational requirements, Mahmoud assured that FCT authorities would enforce stringent health compliance, especially for high-risk pilgrims, and commended NAHCON for its recent operational successes.