THE National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has dissociated itself from certain individuals and companies falsely claiming to represent it.

He said people and companies negotiating contracts with service providers for accommodation and feeding pilgrims in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj are impostors.

The commission’s deputy director for public affairs, Fatima Usara, said this in a statement on Monday.

Ms Usara said some of the people representing the companies had gone so far as to enter into contracts with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on behalf of the commission.

“The Chairman of the Commission, Professor Abdullahi Usman, wishes to inform the general public and all stakeholders in the country and beyond, that NAHCON has not authorized any individual, group or agent to enter into contracts or enter into any arrangements or agreements on his behalf, whether in Nigeria or Saudi Arabia for the Hajj of the year.

“NAHCON strictly carries out all official transactions through its recognized and authorized personnel, following due process.

“Any agreement or arrangement entered into without the formal approval of the President and the direct participation of NAHCON personnel officially assigned to this task is not authorized, and the Commission will not be obligated to honor such contracts,” the statement said. press release.

Ms Usara urged the public and service providers in Saudi Arabia and Nigeria to exercise caution and ensure that all transactions with the commission are carried out through its official communication channels.

“This is to protect the commission’s unsuspecting customers from falling victim to fraudulent schemes. NAHCON will not bear any responsibility for the losses suffered by the victims,” she added.

She asked the public to contact the commission for clarification or to verify the authenticity of any claims.

Hajj 2025

Hajj 2025 will see major changes, as Saudi authorities are now responsible for the accommodation and food of pilgrims throughout their stay in the holy land.

In the past, National Hajj Commissions and NAHCON were responsible for covering living expenses during the Hajj performance.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced the change last month during meetings with NAHCON and other stakeholders.

READ ALSO: Hajj: NAHCON will reimburse 95,000 pilgrims

States such as Edo, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commenced preparations for the 2025 Hajj following the announcement of a required initial deposit of N8 million.

The FCT Pilgrims Council also appointed Kadiri Edah as its new director.

Mr. Edah took over from Mohammed Adamu, who oversaw the board during the 2024 Hajj, a period marked by controversy and discontent among pilgrims who participated in the exercise.