A faith-based civil society organisation, the Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has raised concerns over information overload and conflicting reports during Hajj operations, calling for urgent measures to ensure a more seamless 2027 pilgrimage.
The organisation also proposed the establishment of a Nigerian-owned hospital or health facility in Saudi Arabia to reduce costs and improve healthcare service delivery to Nigerian pilgrims.
The resolutions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 2026 Hajj Lecture and Awards held at the National Mosque Auditorium in Abuja on Thursday.
The communiqué was jointly signed by Muhammad Suleiman Tola and Garba Muhammad, who served as rapporteurs.
IHR, an umbrella body of journalists committed to reporting and advocating workable policies within the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem, said the avalanche of information from different sources had become a major challenge to effective Hajj operations.
To address the situation, the organisation said it had constituted a Media Monitoring Team to ensure real-time tracking and reporting of Hajj operations and services.
The conference also drew attention to the rapidly approaching deadlines for the 2027 Hajj exercise, urging stakeholders to begin preparations early and work towards meeting all required timelines.
The organisation noted that Hajj and Umrah had grown beyond their spiritual significance to become major platforms for economic opportunities.
It urged operators and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in transportation, aviation, accommodation, hospitality, catering, healthcare, financial services, retail and logistics.
According to the communiqué, Hajj has evolved into a global mirror for Islam and Muslims, making efficient full-package service delivery critical to projecting a positive image of Nigeria while placing pilgrims’ welfare at the centre of operations.
The conference commended security agencies for their efforts and called for greater synergy and proactive measures to protect the lives and property of pilgrims and Hajj officials.
On financing, IHR noted the increasing role of Islamic financing in Hajj, Umrah and global businesses, recommending its adoption by relevant stakeholders.
It also called for the establishment of a Nigeria-Saudi Halal Investment Forum to promote trade, commerce and business opportunities between the two countries.
The conference further highlighted the enormous aviation component of Hajj and Umrah operations, urging increased patronage of domestic airlines in line with Saudi guidelines and minimum operational requirements.
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IHR also encouraged the local production of Hajj essentials, including travel bags and ihram clothing, saying the move could stimulate Nigeria’s economy and create opportunities for local businesses.
The organisation appreciated the role of tour operators in providing satisfactory services to pilgrims and urged them to adapt to emerging trends and challenges in the Hajj and Umrah industry.
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