Relevant staff in the team of the 2024 Hajj operations, under the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), including those in the medical and media teams may get stranded in the Holy land, as the Commission announced that there is no money to pay them the usual allowances they are entitled to due to “financial downturn.”
According to a statement today, May 30, by the Commission’s spokesperson, Hajiya Fatima Sanda Usara, the financial downturn that impacted many aspects of the 2024 Hajj operations did not leave out the payment of NAHCON staff stipend for the Hajj operations. “The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) regrets the situation knowing how exerting Hajj operations are to staff and their families. Due to these financial constraints, certain allowances peculiar to NAHCON staff will remain suspended for the time being.”
She said that in the face of the challenging situation, the Commission remains hopeful that as conditions improve, staff allowances may be reassessed even if it were a minimal increase. “However, this time around, staff will be given the option of returning to Nigeria after putting 21 days of service if they opt to return.”
Usara quoted the Commission’s Chairman, Malam Jalal Arabi as having explained the tight situation to staff on offshore assignment via zoom meeting about what the Commission finds itself in.
She said that the chairman sought their understanding, telling them that it is same condition that led NAHCON to request for medical volunteerism by National Medical Team members.
“Similarly, allowances of all operational Committee members: including Media Team, Ulama, Security and other Stakeholders remain affected due to budgetary limitations.”
The Chairman solicited maximum support and cooperation of all concerned, fully aware that not all will be happy with this drastic departure from the past. She said that the reality of what is happening is a reflection of the situation in which the whole country finds itself.
“For the same factor, not all staff members were deployed for the offshore assignment. Normally, staff deployment for the offshore operations is staggered due to the nature of tasks they are expected to perform. While the Commission would have preferred to travel with all its staff to facilitate easier coordination, the current financial circumstances necessitated difficult decisions to ensure the viability of the operations.
“The NAHCON Chairman acknowledges the dedication and commitment of his staff and expresses gratitude for their understanding during this challenging period.
“He also reassures all stakeholders of the Commission’s continued efforts to navigate these financial challenges while prioritizing the well-being of pilgrims, its personnel and the success of the Hajj.
