The Association of Hajj Media Support Professionals (AHMSP) has appealed to all stakeholders in Nigeria’s Hajj sector to unite in support of a smooth and successful 2025 pilgrimage exercise.
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In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Abubakar Nagarta, the group called for an end to divisive sentiments and sponsored media campaigns aimed at discrediting the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), especially at a time when preparations for the pilgrimage are in full gear.
AHMSP, a non-profit association made up of media practitioners who monitor and report Hajj activities, expressed concern over the growing wave of negativity surrounding the Hajj regulator despite its efforts to ensure a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
“At a time when the mood is upbeat for the 2025 Hajj, attempts to derail progress for personal or political reasons should be discouraged by all,” the statement said. “The Hajj is a sacred exercise and must be treated with the seriousness it deserves.”
The association praised NAHCON, under the leadership of Professor Abdullahi Usman Saleh, for what it described as commendable achievements ahead of the airlift of over 52,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
“AHMSP has observed the commission’s work over the past month and can confirm major strides under the current board,” the statement added.
Among the achievements highlighted were the prompt disbursement of refunds from Saudi Arabia for unrendered services during the 2023 Hajj, and the successful negotiation of discounts for accommodation, feeding, and transportation at Masha’ir, a move that led to a reduction in Hajj fares for 2025, despite concerns over Nigeria’s foreign exchange rate.
The group also commended NAHCON for taking responsibility in securing accommodation for private tour operators who were unable to meet the deadline due to financial constraints.
AHMSP urged all interested parties to set aside personal interests and support the commission’s efforts, emphasizing that disrupting such a sensitive process benefits no one.
“Hajj activities attract wide media attention in Nigeria due to their significance. This should be used positively to strengthen the system, not to weaken it,” the group concluded.
