By Shafi’u Yahaya
The Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria (HUTON) has commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for organising a three-day sensitisation workshop for leaders of tour operating companies to improve efficiency in Hajj operations.
The National President of HUTON, Comrade Muhammad Auwalu Suleiman, gave the commendation, describing the workshop as an important initiative aimed at upgrading the operations of Hajj and Umrah tour operators to meet modern international standards.
The workshop, titled Executive Programme on Hajj Operational Efficiency and Strategic Coordination for Leaders of Tour Operators, was organised under the theme, “Strategic Leadership, Business-to-Business Partnership and Operational Excellence for Hajj 2027.”
Suleiman said the association had benefited significantly from the training, which was designed to strengthen the capacity of executives and managers of tour operating companies, who play important roles in the Hajj and Umrah industry.
He explained that continuous training was necessary to move the sector away from outdated practices and improve service delivery through modern operational methods, effective coordination and stronger business partnerships.
The HUTON president also called on political leaders and relevant authorities to reconsider the issue of passport production in Kano, arguing that restoring the facility would make passport services more accessible to residents of the North-West and other parts of Northern Nigeria.
He noted that easier access to passport services was particularly important for people travelling abroad for medical treatment, including patients who require urgent medical attention.
Also speaking, the North-West Deputy Chairman of HUTON, Alhaji Yusuf Gadonkaya, commended members of the association for their impressive turnout at the three-day workshop organised by NAHCON.
Gadonkaya said the training came at an appropriate time, adding that both executives and staff of tour operating companies would benefit from the knowledge acquired and apply it to improve their services.
He expressed optimism that the workshop would strengthen cooperation between HUTON and NAHCON, describing the commission as the association’s regulatory body.
He prayed for continued unity between the association and NAHCON, as well as the success of their efforts to improve Hajj operations and services for Nigerian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia.
The workshop forms part of efforts to strengthen leadership, operational coordination and service delivery ahead of the 2027 Hajj exercise.