Ensure you don’t disrupt transportation of pilgrims – NAHCON cautions NLC

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has been advised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) not to interfere with the current pilgrimage of Nigerians to Saudi Arabia.

The guidance was provided in a statement on Monday in Abuja by Mrs. Fatima Usara, Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON.

Additionally, Usara emphasized that the NLC must honor the delicate nature of “this divine devotion and not to encroach on its movement.”

“Information reaching NAHCON indicates that there are plans by a section of the NLC to disrupt the ongoing Hajj operations.

“This is coming in spite of the initial understanding that Hajj flights would not be affected.

“The commission appreciates concern of the NLC over the welfare of its members, however, NAHCON wants it to respect the sanctity of Hajj as a religious obligation which Muslims do not take lightly.

“The commission advises NLC to apply caution and not to tamper with the Hajj conveyance as a courtesy to the Muslim faith.

“Disruptive action against the smoothness of the operation will deprive intending muslims their fundamental right to worship considering the limited time left before closure of Jeddah and Madinah airports for the pilgrimage,” the statement added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that no fewer than 65,500 Nigerians are expected to perform the 2024 pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

NAHCON records indicate that the commission has so far transported 38,805 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in 92 flights.