2024 Hajj: NAHCON warns against nursing volunteerism offer on social media

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has not registered any organisation to recruit volunteer nurses for the upcoming 2024 Hajj operation.

The Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Fatima Sanda-Usara said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

She said the commission had observed misleading information circulating on social media regarding the invitation for recruitment of volunteer nursing staff for the 2024 Hajj services.

She said it was crucial for the public to be aware that NAHCON had not registered any organisation for the recruitment of volunteer nurses during Hajj.

She strongly cautioned the public against falling victim to potential scams.

Sanda-Usara said that only medical personnel engaged by the commission would be authorised to practice medicare during Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

“For emphasis, even setting up of clinics by verified country representatives such as NAHCON is strictly regulated by Saudi Arabia’s authorities.

“Hence,  how can  any organisation offer medical assistance without the commission’s knowledge?

“Under Saudi Arabian medical policies, no State Pilgrims’ Board, Private Tour Operators or organisations are permitted to run clinics.

“It is only under a Hajj participating country’s recognised Hajj Mission with approval from the Saudi Ministry of Health through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

“Whoever does otherwise runs the risk of arrest and persecution.”

Sanda-Usara further clarified that Sheikh Muhammad Adam, the Imam of Sultan Bello Mosque has disassociated himself from the purported recruitment offer.

Similarly, she said the NAHCON delegation, on the instruction of its Chairman, Malam Jalal Arabi who is on official assignment in Saudi Arabia, met Dr Mohammed Suleman for clarification on the matter.

“Led by Malam Yusuf Balele and Ahmad Muhammad of NAHCON Media unit, the revered Sheikh assured the team of their commitment to share only authentic information from NAHCON.

“He called for collaboration between NAHCON and Ulama in the dissemination of the commission’s messages to avoid misinformation.”

She said that NAHCON communicated solely through official government channels, print and electronic media, as well as through its authorised social media handles.

“They are @nigeriahajjcom (Instagram, Facebook & Twitter) and the NAHCON Website at: nahcon.gov.ng.

“For legitimate enquiries, the public is advised to contact the commission’s official access numbers at 09071800007 & 08059456781 (Calls/Text/WhatsApp).

“Followers are advised to disregard any unverified information that does not originate from the commission’s official sources.”