Senate Passes Bill to Amend NAHCON Act

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill to amend the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Act, aiming to enhance efficiency and accountability in the commission’s operations.

During Wednesday’s plenary session, Senator Abbas Iya (PDP-Adamawa), the sponsor of the bill, presented the lead debate on its general principles. He emphasized the need for amendments to the NAHCON (Establishment) Act of 2006 to ensure better regulation of Hajj activities.

Senator Iya highlighted the current challenges faced by the commission, stating, “Present practice allows states Muslim pilgrims welfare boards to handle accommodation and feeding of their pilgrims in Mecca while NAHCON handles accommodation and feeding of all pilgrims in Madina and Masha’ir (Mina and Arafat).

The Lawmaker pointed out that the commission’s role in screening and allocating airlines for Hajj operations undermines its regulatory function. He proposed amendments to involve states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the selection of airline agencies and to allow them to manage accommodation and feeding in Madina and Masha’ir, regulated by NAHCON.

“This passage of the amendment bill would allow NAHCON to carry out its primary regulatory responsibility and guarantee a more efficient, accountable, and seamless Hajj operation,” Senator Iya added.

Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, presiding over the session, referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for further legislative action. The committee is expected to report back in two weeks.

The passage of this bill signals a significant step towards improving the regulatory framework governing Hajj operations in Nigeria, ensuring the welfare and smooth experience of pilgrims.