By Fatima Dayyab Usman

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has called for dialogue, collaboration, and constructive engagement among stakeholders following concerns raised over accommodation arrangements in Mina and Arafat for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

In a press statement signed by its management, the Commission said its attention had been drawn to a report attributed to a State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board concerning the standard of accommodation arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj.

NAHCON acknowledged that concerns might arise during preparations for an operation as large and complex as Hajj, but stressed that constructive engagement and continuous consultation among stakeholders remained the most effective means of resolving issues timely and beneficially.

The Commission noted that the selection and allocation of Mashair service providers for the 2026 Hajj exercise were largely guided by the preferences and choices expressed by participating states during consultations with NAHCON.

According to the statement, the Commission respected the collective decisions reached during the consultations in the interest of pilgrims’ welfare and operational harmony.

NAHCON therefore urged all stakeholders, including State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and officials, to prioritise dialogue, collaboration, and solution-driven engagement with service providers rather than resorting prematurely to the media over concerns still being addressed through established operational channels.

The Commission further encouraged states to work closely with service providers on-site to identify gaps, improve arrangements where necessary, and ensure that the comfort, safety, and welfare of Nigerian pilgrims remained paramount.

NAHCON reassured all intending pilgrims that it would continue to monitor service delivery in the Mashair and engage all relevant stakeholders towards ensuring a successful and hitch-free 2026 Hajj exercise.