2025: NAHCON cautions against unauthorised contracts with service providers

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has raised an alarm over fraudulent activities involving impostors posing as agents of the commission to negotiate contracts regarding the 2025 Hajj exercise.

The commission disclosed that the individuals have been making unauthorized commitments to service providers for contracts related to pilgrims’ accommodations and feeding arrangements in Saudi Arabia for next year’s pilgrimage.

Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, in a statement signed by Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, on Monday, expressed concerns that some of the impostors have gone to the extent of making contacts with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in the name of the Commission.

The commission warned that any agreement or arrangement entered into without formal approval by the Chairman and the direct involvement of NAHCON’s staff officially would not be honoured.

The statement said: “Information has reached the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) that some persons or self-acclaimed agents are using the Commission’s name to make commitments to service providers for contracts on pilgrims’ accommodations and feeding arrangements in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj.

“The Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, wishes to inform the general public and all stakeholders within the country and beyond that NAHCON has not authorized any individual, group, or agent to enter into contracts or make any arrangements or agreements on its behalf, whether in Nigeria or in Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.

“NAHCON strictly conducts all official transactions through its recognised and authorised personnel, following due process.

“Any agreement or arrangement entered into without formal approval by the Chairman and the direct involvement of NAHCON’s staff officially assigned to the task is unauthorised, and the Commission will not be obligated to honour such contracts.

“NAHCON urges the public, service providers in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, and other stakeholders to exercise caution and ensure that all dealings with NAHCON are done through its official channels of communication.

“This announcement is made to protect the Commission’s unsuspecting clientele from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. NAHCON will not take responsibility for any losses incurred by victims of such.”