Hajj 2023: Why NAHCON should decentralise medical operations

The Lagos State Government (LASG) has called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON to decentralise its medical team for the trip operations.

The State which commended the Commission for good administration of the 2023 Hajj operations believes whittling down the power from the central medical team will ensure optimal performance during the period.

Head of the Lagos State Hajj team, Prince Anofiu Elegushi made the statement to journalists in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after successful airlifting of all contingent of Lagos State for pilgrimage.

Prince Elegushi explained that the State through its pilgrims board has raised the bar in the administration of Hajj exercise and would love to collaborate with other critical stakeholders for more effective deliveries.

He said: “So far so good, we have been having a peaceful arrangement, although with little hitches, which is normal but so far we have been able to control crowd and resolve other issues regarding the pilgrims that came up and after all, we have been able to lifted over three thousand pilgrims to Saudi Arabia and for now, everything is okay for Lagos Pilgrims.

“NAHCON has done well, but the area I will like to talk about is the area of monopoly. I think they should reduce the power of the operation There are some that State can do better. For example, the area of medical, although NAHCON is always prepared, but looking at the number of people that came from Nigeria, their facilities may be overwhelmed.

“If we can have medical from the houses where pilgrims reside, it would reduce pressure on major medical infrastructure. They should, at least, release some powers to the State, I am sure, things will go well if they can do that.”

Elegushi, however, reassured the pilgrims of better arrangements in the coming days.

Deputy Lagos State Hajj team, Mr Abdullahi Jebe appreciated the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring that the right persons are positioned to carry out the Hajj operations for Lagos Pilgrims.