A civil Society Group, an Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has tasked the new board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to get prepared for the enormous challenges ahead.

The IHR, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammad, yesterday, congratulated the newly-appointed NAHCON Chairman, Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi, just as he commended the immediate past board, headed by Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, for the services rendered to Nigerian pilgrims despite challenges.

The group stressed the need for massive public enlightenment across the country to meet the new Saudi Arabia guidelines for 2024 hajj.

Mohammed, who reminded the new ‘Sheriff in Town’ of the limited periods stipulated for the conclusion of pilgrims’ registration, visa issuance, arrangement with service providers and aviation service, urged a decisive action to kick the ball rolling.

He also urged the new board to hit the ground running by ensuring prompt registration of intending pilgrims and engagement of capable service providers for the hajj.

“As retired Permanent Secretary in the Federal Civil Service, it is expected of the new chairman to put in place a comprehensive and sustainable hajj policy that focuses on efficient service delivery for Nigerian pilgrims and see to its implementation at every stage.

“We also note that the new chairman is coming into office at the right time with a timeline of activities regarding hajj 2024. But as a seasoned civil servant, the new NAHCON helmsman comes onboard with a technocratic experience, which we believe will come to bear as he assumes duty.

“While commending the immediate past board of the commission for doing well despite numerous challenges, IHR particularly paid tribute to the Zikirullah Kunle Hassan-led board for the take-off of the Hajj Savings Scheme and the Hajj Institute of Nigeria. We wish the incoming CEO a successful tenure of office,” Mohammad noted.