Independent Hajj Reporters Urge Hajj, Umrah Operators To Exploit Enormous Transportation Aviation, Accommodation, Others
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Independent Hajj Reporters(IHR),an umbrella of journalists committed to reporting, educating, enlightening and advocating workable policies within the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem,has urged all
operators and entrepreneurs of Hajj and Umrah to exploit the enormous transportation, aviation, accommodation, hospitality, catering, healthcare, financial, retail and logistics,among others.
IHR made the call in a Communiqué issued at the end of the 2026 Hajj Lecture and Awards held at the National Mosque,Abuja, on Thursday.
In the communique which was signed by Muhammad Suleiman Tola and Garba Muhammad, participants of the conference noted that Hajj and Umrah sector had gone beyond spirituality to economic opportunities.
They also observed that Hajj had evolved into a global mirror for Islam and Muslims,hence the need to ensure an efficient full package service delivery to secure a positive image for Nigeria by ensuring that the welfare of pilgrims remained the pivotal driver.
The conference noted that the annual awards are designed to appreciate outstanding administrators, service providers and operators to keep upscaling the industry.
On security, the conference lauded the efforts of security representatives and urged for more synergy and proactiveness in securing the lives and properties of pilgrims and officials.
It noted the role of Islamic financing of Hajj and Umrah as well as businesses in the global economy, and recommended for its adoption by all stakeholders in the industry.
It further recommended the establishment of Nigeria-Saudi Halal Investment Forum to promote trade, commerce and businesses.
While also noting the health of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah operations, the conference recommended the establishment of a hospital or health facility in Saudi Arabia to cut costs of medication and ensure efficient services in line with Saudi Arabian rules.
The conference also noted that the aviation component of Hajj and Umrah operations is too enormous and called for more domestic patronage in line with Saudi Arabian guidelines and minimum requirements.
It then encouraged stakeholders to ensure the domestic production and provision of Hajj essentials such as bags and ihram clothing for pilgrims for Nigeria’s economic growth and prosperity.
The conference appreciated the role of tour operators in delivering satisfactory Hajj and Umrah services and enjoined them to align their activities with emerging trends and challenges.