Ibrahim Layode, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, has called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to convene a meeting with all states to tackle the issues encountered during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. Layode made this plea during a press conference held at the Alsaad Flower Hotel 2 in Misfalah, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Highlighting the challenges faced, Layode attributed many of the issues to shortcomings on NAHCON’s part. He particularly cited dissatisfaction among South West pilgrims regarding the food provided in Mina and the accommodation in Makkah.
“We encountered significant challenges, most of which stemmed from NAHCON,” Layode remarked, noting that the caterer selected for Lagos State pilgrims failed to cater adequately to the preferences of South West pilgrims, leading to discontent and almost sparking protests in Mina. Many pilgrims opted to purchase food from vendors instead. Moreover, the accommodation standards in Makkah did not meet expectations.
Despite these setbacks, Layode opposed calls for the dissolution of NAHCON, stating, “You can’t throw away the baby with the bathwater.” He acknowledged NAHCON’s acknowledgment of the problems and called for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address them before the 2025 Hajj season.
Layode expressed gratitude to Lagos State pilgrims for their patience and resilience. He also thanked Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for their support, particularly in covering the shortfall of the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) and other expenses, such as the cost of rams.
Currently, 926 out of the 1,869 pilgrims from Lagos State who participated in the 2024 Hajj have been airlifted back home.
