NIGERIA is one of the greatest global stakeholders in Hajj. It has maintained top position every year in Hajj quota and was ranked the seventh largest participant in the annual event in 2017, having nearly 95,000 pilgrims who performed the Islamic obligation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. That is why Nigeria, on one hand, is recognised by the Saudi Arabian government as a partner in progress in the dynamism of Hajj-made-easy for Muslims of the world.  On the other hand, Nigeria is revered globally for the tremendous transformation of Hajj management within the country and outside its shores.

To justify these huge cosmopolitan recognitions, Nigeria was invited to the 2018 World Hajj and Umrah Convention (WHUC) and given the unique privilege to deliver the keynote address to the world leaders in Hajj and Umrah organisation and management. And there Nigeria told her success story, the revolution in Hajj administration around the world as well as the effects of Hajj on the global socio-economic re-ordering.

Nigeria’s positions on critical Hajj issues were distinct. Nigeria wants the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to spearhead the engagement of various stakeholders: the Organisation for Islamic Conference (OIC), the Muslim World League and Hajj Missions, to leave a legacy for the next generation of Muslims. Nigeria also proposed to the global Hajj and Umrah community to truly professionalise the management of Hajj and Umrah by having a global body that will set industry-specific standards, processes, accreditation and related matters.

• Muhammad Ajah,

 Abuja

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