By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has described the news inviting volunteer nursing staff for recruitment for the 2024 Hajj operations as fake.

A statement by Fatima Sanda Usara Assistant Director on Public Affairs said the news circulating in social media regarding the recruitment is misleading and false.

“It is crucial for the public to be aware that NAHCON has not registered any organization for the recruitment of volunteer nurses during Hajj. We strongly caution against falling victim to potential scams.

“NAHCON hereby clarifies that only medical personnel engaged by the Commission would be authorized 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 could any organization offer medical assistance without the Commission’s knowledge?

“Under Saudi Arabian medical policies, no State Pilgrims’ Board, Private Tour Operators or organizations are permitted to run clinics except under a Hajj participating country’s recognized Hajj Mission with approval from the Saudi Ministry of Health through Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

“Whoever does otherwise runs the risk of arrest and prosecution.

“NAHCON further clarifies that Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Suleman Adam, the Imam of Sultan Bello Mosque has disassociated himself from this purported recruitment offer.

“Similarly, NAHCON delegation, on the instruction of its Chairman Mallam Jalal Ahmad Arabi who is on official assignment in Saudi Arabia, met Dr. Suleman for clarification over the matter.”

Led by Mallam 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 as the organization charged with Hajj matters in Nigeria.

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

“It is pertinent to note that NAHCON communicates solely through official government channels, print and electronic media, as well as through these authorized social media handles: @nigeriahajjcom (Instagram, Facebook & Twitter) and the NAHCON Website at: nahcon.gov.ng.

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

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