The National Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Saleh Usman, has refuted claims that he is obstructing preparations for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage by canceling agreements with Saudi-based Muaashir companies.
Responding to allegations from the Forum of States Pilgrim Welfare Agencies, which accused him of unilaterally terminating contracts with Saudi service provider Mashariq Al-Dhahabiah, Professor Usman described the claims as an attack on his integrity as an Islamic scholar.
The forum’s Secretary and Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abubakar Salihu, warned that the contract’s cancellation could jeopardize visa approvals for Nigerian pilgrims.
However, Professor Usman clarified that the Saudi government, not NAHCON, was responsible for the contract’s termination.
“The contract with the Saudi-based company was initially canceled by the Saudi government, later reinstated, and then canceled again. So, you can see that I had no involvement in the decision,” he stated.
He further assured Nigerian pilgrims that the commission is fully committed to ensuring a seamless Hajj experience.
“Because of this back and forth, I am currently in Saudi Arabia to ensure due process is followed. We are operating with transparency and integrity, and I guarantee that no pilgrim will miss this year’s Hajj,” he affirmed.
Professor Usman emphasized that preparations at NAHCON are nearly complete and that the commission remains focused on delivering a high-quality pilgrimage experience.
“Our preparations are almost finalized. We have no issues, and, Inshallah, we will achieve outstanding results. Those spreading misinformation will witness our success, as we are committed to making the 2025 Hajj one of the best by the will of Allah,” he concluded.
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