The 2024 Hajj is just around the corner, poised to unfold as January 2024 marks the commencement of the kick-off phase. This heralds the onset of the Hajj conference, a pivotal event that swings open the doors to initiate meticulous preparations for this forthcoming Hajj. The road to the Hajj in 2024 promises to be one of a journey of hope and resilience.
Since 2023, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unfurled a tapestry of new policies, with the prospect of introducing even more in harmony with its Vision 2030.
Post Hajj 2023, the Saudi government, in its foresight, introduced a new visa regime. This significant shift entails the conclusion of visa issuance 50 days prior to Arafah, revolutionizing the conventional approach and from the customary last-minute rush and the fire brigade methods of visa issuance. This policy is bound to have a profound impact on the turnout of Nigerian pilgrims, challenging our accustomed practices.
At the forefront of this evolution is the introduction of the Nusuk application, initially designed for Umrah bookings but adapted to facilitate the seamless reservation of slots for Raudah visits during Hajj. The Haramain Train, Makkah Route, and Makkah Bus Projects stand as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the pilgrimage experience and alleviating logistical challenges.
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Also among the pivotal policy changes is the dissolution of the archaic practice of allocating a single Mutawaf company to countries, a system that resulted in Nigeria being paired with a Mutawaf for non-Arab speaking countries (Muassasah).
In its place emerges a dynamic approach; six companies are qualified to provide services to the global pilgrims and more are coming on board for the 2024 hajj, granting each country the freedom to choose its service provider from a selection of companies. This introduces healthy competition, fostering a landscape where satisfaction and quality service delivery take precedence.
Another notable policy change is reducing tour operating companies from Nigeria to 10 for the upcoming Hajj season. Though this transition presents initial challenges, it aims to streamline operations. Moreover, this signifies a move towards quality over quantity. This strategic pruning sets the stage for enhanced efficiency and a heightened focus on delivering an unparalleled pilgrimage experience.
In the intricate tapestry of Hajj endeavours, the media stands as a pivotal thread, weaving narratives that shape the landscape of the Nigerian Hajj experience. From the articulation of grievances to the celebration of achievements, the media wields a significant influence. However, amidst this narrative, the problem of inadequate information looms, particularly as a challenge faced by Nigerian pilgrims.
It would be unjust to place blame on the pilgrims, especially the elderly grappling with difficulties. The source of their tribulations often traces back to a lack of information, a void that may stem from their state, tour operator, NAHCON, the Saudi Arabian embassy or the ministry of Hajj.
Upon their arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims often rely on information disseminated by state officials and the informal grapevine, perpetuating rumours through word of mouth. Those fortunate enough to access information via social media channels are not immune to misinformation, often falling victim to misleading narratives or false news. Pilgrims complained about the lack of information to them in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
At the same time, the Saudi authorities also complained about the lack of preparatory information for the pilgrims before arrival. The challenge lies in the limited information-sharing avenues for Nigerian pilgrims within the Kingdom, where television, radio, and newspaper outlets catering to Nigerian pilgrims are notably absent.
The lingering problems of ignorance and illiteracy among pilgrims persist. Some pilgrims, hailing from rural areas in Nigeria, require instruction on basic tasks such as flushing toilets, using taps, or navigating elevators. The absence of familiarity with road signs and written instructions further underscores the necessity for a comprehensive approach to the education and awareness of these individuals.
During the Hajj, a significant portion of complaints received by NAHCON emanate from the repercussions of ineffective communication or misinformation.
Thus, the role of the media in this year’s Hajj is pivotal, perhaps more than ever. Pilgrims need timely information on Hajj fare payment deadlines, which NAHCON set 31st December 2023 as the date for final remittance of the N4.5 million deposit, the policy of ending visas 50 days before Hajj, Nusuk booking, Makkah bus arrangements, visa validity, reduction in tour operating companies, hadaya and guidance on avoiding scams. This information is crucial not only to alleviate the stress on pilgrims but also to empower them with knowledge about available solutions in case of service shortfalls.
The media can serve as a beacon, guiding pilgrims and ensuring they are well-informed and equipped to navigate the intricacies of the Hajj experience.
The media’s role should transcend mere reporting, to offering a strictly factual, non-controversial, and non-propagandist news service tailored to provide pilgrims with essential information and inspire them to reap the maximum benefits of the Hajj experience.
To facilitate this comprehensive coverage, the Saudi Embassy, the Hajj Commission and the states should team up and equip the media with an array of resources, including policies, pictures, leaflets, slides, maps, videos, and informative books about the 2024 Hajj.
These materials can construct a user experience journey map, guiding pilgrims through each step of their pilgrimage, from understanding crucial Hajj dates in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia to timelines for spiritual education, visa processing, BTA, flying, arrival, visitation, and more. The Saudi embassy holds a pivotal role in fostering information sharing through the media.
Muazu is a staff of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria
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