Stakeholders in the Hajj industry of Nigeria converged on Thursday at the National Auditorium Mosque, Central Area Abuja for the tenth edition of the Annual Lecture and Awards of the Independent Hajj Reporters .
On the occasion, participants examined the emerging issues in the sector to further strengthen Hajj and Umrah services in the country.
Distinguished individuals and organizations in the Hajj and Umrah businesses were also honored with different awards for their outstanding performances during the 2026 Hajj operations.
In a communique issued at the end of the award ceremony and lecture titled ” Exploring Business Opportunities in the Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem” the conference submitted that the Hajj and Umurah sector has gone beyond spirituality , hence, the need for tour operators and entrepreneurs to exploit the enormous benefits in the transportation, aviation, accommodation, hospitality, catering and healthcare services.
The communique called on them to align their activities with the emerging trends and challenges of the Hajj and Umurah businesses.
The conference emphasised the need to place premium on the welfare of pilgrims and secure a positive image for Nigeria.
According to the communique , the establishment of the Nigeria-Saudi Halal Investment Forum became essential for the promotion of trade, commerce and businesses.
The communique said further that the establishment of a hospital or health facility in Saudi Arabia in line with the government rules would go a long way in reducing the costs of medication for the pilgrims and ensure efficient and prompt services .
The conference noted that the aviation component of Hajj and Umurah operations is too enormous, and called for more domestic patronage in line with Saudi Arabian guidelines and minimum requirements.
The conference encouraged stakeholders to ensure the domestic production and provision of Hajj essentials like bags and ihram clothing for pilgrims for Nigeria’s economic growth and prosperity.
The conference lauded the efforts of security representatives and called for more synergy and proactiveness in securing the lives and properties of pilgrims and officials.
IHR commended all those who contributed to making the conference a success.
