The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria said on Wednesday in Abuja
that the first flight to Saudi Arabia for the 2013 Hajj will take off
on September 14.
Malam Muhammad Bello, the chairman of the commission, said this at the
signing of the agreement with the airlines taking part in the
transportation of intending pilgrims to the holy land.
The airliners include MAX Air, Kabo Air, Medview Airline and Meridian Airline.
Bello said the commission had mandated the carriers to ensure that all
female intending pilgrims be accompanied by their male companions
(Muharram) to forestall deportation.
He said: “The agreement is a very important document because it
specifies the role of every stakeholder in this venture.
“We have been guided by the Nigerian Aviation laws and the Saudi laws
and regulations.
“If a contractor signs to carry out or render a particular service,
then the contractor is bound to do so and abide by the laws.
“This is a matter that is very important in terms of safety, security
and welfare.
“All parties should study the agreement very well.
“If your ground handling staff does not check a pilgrim very well to
determine that the person travelling with the right companion and they
are deported, you will be held responsible.
“If you allow any banned item to cross to Saudi Arabia, you will be
held responsible for any cost, any sanction, any litigation.
“It will not be the responsibility of the commission.
“We will make sure that every carrier, pilgrim as well as state
pilgrim board is protected.
“We have the responsibility of protecting all parties.”
Bello admonished all carriers as well as pilgrims to remember that
Hajj is a religious obligation and should abide by all the rules and
regulations.
Speaking on behalf of the successful carriers, Muniru Bankole of
Medview Airline, promised that the airlines would render the best of
services to the Nigerian Government.
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