The training, which runs from October 26 to 27, 2026, is organised by the Hajj Institute of Nigeria (HIN) in partnership with the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) and the Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria (HUTON).
According to a statement signed by Shafii Sani Mohammed, head of NAHCON’s Information and Publications Division, the programme is designed to strengthen regulatory compliance, improve operational efficiency and raise professional standards among operators.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the training was necessary as the global Hajj industry adapts to changes introduced under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms.
He explained that the emerging business to business (B2B) model would give private sector operators greater responsibility for managing Hajj services, making it essential for Nigerian companies to improve their capacity and readiness.
Yusuf disclosed that NAHCON had secured a three year phased transition arrangement with Saudi authorities, beginning with 30 per cent private sector participation in 2027. He said the arrangement would give Nigeria time to strengthen its regulatory system and prepare tour operators for their expanded roles.
The NAHCON chairman urged participants to uphold professional standards and place pilgrims’ welfare above commercial interests. He also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to professional certification, digital transformation and stronger regulatory supervision.
The Rector of the Hajj Institute of Nigeria, Professor Muhammad Nasirudeen Maiturare, described professional training as vital to effective pilgrimage management. He said operators needed practical knowledge of corporate governance, risk management, operational coordination and international service standards to meet the demands of the changing industry.
Maiturare also highlighted the institute’s academic programmes, including an MBA in Hajj Operations Management offered in collaboration with Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a National Diploma in Hospitality and Hajj Management developed in partnership with the National Board for Technical Education.
The training covers professional ethics, integrated operations management, lessons from the 2026 Hajj, leadership, conflict resolution, pilgrim welfare and cooperation with Saudi service providers.
NAHCON expects the programme to improve operators’ readiness for the 2027 pilgrimage while supporting efforts to build a more professional, competitive and pilgrim focused Hajj and Umrah industry in Nigeria.
