AHUON Calls for Inclusive Hajj Reforms Ahead of 2027 Pilgrimage
By Faiza Musa Adamu
The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has called for sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage.
The group urges the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to strengthen regulation, deepen collaboration with licensed operators, and intensify the crackdown on illegal Hajj and Umrah operators.
AHUON President, Imam Abdul-Lateef Ekundayo Yusuf, made the call at the opening of the association’s two-day 2026 Annual General Meeting in Abuja.
He described the meeting as timely, coming shortly after the successful conclusion of the 2026 Hajj and the commencement of registration for the 2027 pilgrimage.
He stressed that closer cooperation between NAHCON and licensed tour operators would improve Hajj administration and enhance service delivery.
Highlighting the association’s achievements, Yusuf said AHUON successfully recovered members’ funds trapped under Saudi Arabia’s IBAN policy through sustained engagement with NAHCON, the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Saudi authorities.
He also credited partnerships with Flyadeal, Saudi Airlines and UMZA Air for improving airlift arrangements, reducing delays and securing competitive fares for operators.
However, he expressed concern over persistent technical challenges affecting Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform and called for a dedicated technical support mechanism before the 2027 Hajj.
He also urged NAHCON to work with the National Broadcasting Commission and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria to prohibit advertisements by unlicensed Hajj and Umrah operators.
Meanwhile, NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement.
Representing the Commission’s Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, the Registrar of the Hajj Institute, Ibrahim Abubakar Jalingo, disclosed that comprehensive reforms involving licensed tour operators and State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards would soon be introduced to improve accountability, operational efficiency and service delivery ahead of the 2027 Hajj.
