By Kadiri Abdulrahman
Lagos – Mr Musbau Okoya, Executive Secretary, Lagos State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board, on Monday stressed the need for proper planning to achieve hitch free Hajj operations.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the recently concluded 2017 Hajj, Okoya said that timely preparation would go a long way to preventing avoidable hiccups during Hajj exercise.
“I will suggest that the N1ational Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) should commence logistics for subsequent Hajj exercises well in advance and adhere strictly to timelines,” he said.
Okoya also urged Saudi authorities to upgrade and enlarge Hajj facilities to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims yearly.
“Most of the challenges we encountered had to do with logistics, like accommodation and it had to do with increasing number of people who perform the Hajj yearly.
“It is commendable that the authorities increased space allotted to each country, but they should endeavour to upgrade accommodation, transportation and other logistical facilities to accommodate the pilgrims,” he said.
Okoya commended the Hajj policy which gave priority to first time pilgrims.
“Pilgrimage is a spiritual exercise which all able Muslims are enjoined to embark on at least once in their lifetime.
“It is even more rewarding for those with financial ability to sponsor less-endowed Muslims for Hajj.
“Our board will soon commence preparation for the 2018 Hajj, though we will still maintain flexible payment packages, we will be strict on timelines to avoid rush,’’ he said.
He commended Medview Airlines for its professionalism and efficiency in handling Lagos contingent during the just concluded Hajj.
NAN reports that 2,332 pilgrims from Lagos performed the 2017 hajj.