The Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, (NAHCON) on 15th November 2018 paid a courtesy visit to the management of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In his opening remarks, the NAHCON Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Barrister Abdullahi Mukhtar Muhammad, praised FAAN’s achievements in its operations all over the country. While calling for further collaboration between the two agencies in pilgrims’ enlightenment, particularly on areas of protocol and airport formalities, the Chairman described this as important to especially first time international travelers who eventually form majority of pilgrims.
NAHCON CEO also appealed to FAAN management to improve facilities at pilgrims’ departure centers so that pilgrims will receive the same treatment accorded to other international passengers. He specifically mentioned adequate security and provision of clean convenience areas. He acclaimed facilities at the Abuja airport describing them as standard, however this cannot be said for other centers.
Barrister Muhammad suggested that creating a temporary area for medical emergency services or sick bays at the airports will be beneficial for quick response in case of medical crises. NAHCON assured the FAAN management of its support towards realizing this revealing that so far, NAHCON had purchased wheel chairs for use in the airports during Hajj operations. He also disclosed that plans are under way for the commission to procure ambulances to be deployed during the period.
Reacting, the Managing Director of FAAN, Engr Sale Dunama, acknowledged the long-standing relationship between FAAN and Hajj management. He recalled when Hajj organization used to be chaotic until FAAN began to engage directly with NAHCON that the relationship became perfected. He appreciated the evolvement of Hajj experience through the years and assured of FAAN’s support towards attaining greater efficiency for the comfort of pilgrims at the airports. He promised to address all issues raised, assuring that it has been FAAN’s tradition to dispatch a small team that do monitor process flow during times of operation, and this time around, they are starting preparations early.
FAAN members present at the session include, U.S.A Sadiq, Director of Security; Sani Mahmud, Regional Mananger, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport; Akewoshola Adisa, FAAN Chief of Security, Abuja Airport; Henrietta Yakubu V., General Manager, Corporate Affairs who moderated at the event and Mahmud Zakari, Chief of Staff to MD, FAAN. Whereas among NAHCON’s entourage were Commissioner Operations, Alhaji Modibbo Sale, Acting Secretary to the Commission, Alhaji Ahmed Maigari , Acting Head of Aviation, Ahmed M. Shira, among others.
