The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Monday warned service providers, both in Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, that it will not honor any unauthorized contracts entered into by self-acclaimed agents of the commission or individuals.
The warning, according to a statement signed by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, on behalf of the Chairman, Professor Abdullah Saleh Usman, and made available to Nigerian Tribune in Abuja, followed information indicating that some persons were using the Hajj body’s name to make commitments to service providers regarding contracts for pilgrims’ accommodation and feeding for the 2025 Hajj.
It declared that NAHCON has not authorized any individual, group, or agent to enter into contracts or make any arrangements or agreements on its behalf, whether in Nigeria or Saudi Arabia, for next year’s Hajj.
“Information has reached the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) that some persons or self-acclaimed agents are using the commission’s name to make commitments to service providers for contracts related to pilgrims’ accommodation and feeding arrangements in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj.
“Some of these individuals have even gone as far as making contact with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in the name of the commission.
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“The Chairman of the commission, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, wishes to inform the general public and all stakeholders, both in the country and abroad, that NAHCON has NOT authorized any individual, group, or agent to enter into contracts or make any arrangements or agreements on its behalf, whether in Nigeria or Saudi Arabia, for next year’s Hajj.
“NAHCON strictly conducts all official transactions through its recognized and authorized personnel, following due process,” the statement read in part.
In view of this, the commission warned that any agreement or arrangement entered into without the chairman’s approval is unauthorized, and as such, NAHCON will not honor such agreements.
“Any agreement or arrangement entered into without formal approval by the Chairman and the direct involvement of NAHCON’s staff officially assigned to the task is unauthorized, and the commission will not be obligated to honor such contracts.
“NAHCON urges the public, service providers in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, and other stakeholders to exercise caution and ensure that all dealings with NAHCON are conducted through its official channels of communication.
“This announcement is made to protect the commission’s unsuspecting clientele from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. NAHCON will not take responsibility for any losses incurred by victims of such schemes,” it warned.
The commission further urged the public to contact its office through its official channels for clarification or to verify the authenticity of any NAHCON-related claims.