LAGOS URGES NAHCON TO SUPPORT HAJJ OPERATORS ON NEW ICT REGISTRATION POLICY

The Lagos State Government has appealed to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to assist Hajj operators in solving the challenges on the newly introduced Information Communication Technology (ICT) based registration and processing of intending pilgrims’ data for 2018 Hajj exercise.

The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. Muftau Okoya made the appeal during a courtesy visit to his Office by NAHCON officials led by the Southwest Commissioner, Imam Fuad Adeyemi.

Mr. Okoya, who pointed out that the medical fitness of intending pilgrims is key in performing Hajj, urged NAHCON to give adequate support to operators with regards to the new developments in the Hajj operation, saying “NAHCON should perfect the E-portal because it is essential for proper records of all intending pilgrims from Nigeria”.

Okoya advised NAHCON to work with agencies that have a direct effect on hajj operation such as Nigeria Immigration Service, National Identity Management Commission, Health Institutions and other agencies to enhance services rendered to intending pilgrims.

“We hope that NAHCON will make the issue of Biometrics and Visa easier for the operators and their pilgrims because of the new method that has been adopted”.

Responding, the Team leader of the NAHCON delegation, Imam Fuad Adeyemi reassured the Lagos State Government of the commitment and readiness of the Commission to make this year’s operation easier and smooth for all stakeholders.

According to him, Hajj is no longer a seasonal work but a serious and regular business that requires technical know-how of the ICT unit of all hajj operators as a result of the recent computer-based operation.

“We know that Lagos will not lack behind in this new development as they have been seen to have not only made NAHCON proud in the last operation but entire Africa”.

He reiterated the commitment of the Commission to E-Hajj operations and the need for all hajj officials to be in compliance with the system, adding that NAHCON will relate to all State Boards based on the information provided on its e-portal.