Protecting Nigerians From Covid-19 Is Priority For Us Now, Says President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja reiterated the
commitment of his administration to the welfare of Nigerians especially with
the current happenings around the world.

Speaking while receiving the management of the National Hajj
Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in State House, President Buhari said: “I am
pleased that you are working with the Ministry of Health on protecting our
citizens from Covid-19 virus.”

“You must work to guarantee the safety and security of our
pilgrims. As a government, this is now a key priority for us. I therefore
enjoin you to ensure that adequate medical provisions and other welfare
requirements are afforded our pilgrims,” he added.

The President expressed his delight with the operations of
the Commission so far especially, the reduction to up to 15 per cent in Hajj
fares.

“I am pleased to hear of the progress you have made thus far
especially in reducing Hajj fares by up to 15 per cent.  I am also impressed that you are still
working to further bring down the cost next year. This is commendable now
especially with the recent global events that have impacted on the economy.
Such savings will be timely and most welcome to the pilgrims as well as to
Nigeria’s economy,” he said.

President Buhari however, cautioned them against sacrificing
quality for safety and comfort of pilgrims.

“However, as you assess and reduce these costs, you must
ensure that quality service and comfort are provided  for our pilgrims as these are the core
mandates of your Commission and must remain your primary goal,” he said.

The Chairman of the Commission, Zikrullah Kunle Hassan had
informed the President of the efforts of the commission to make life better for
Nigerians on pilgrimage.  He said that
the Saudi government had given some concessions to Nigerians especially in the
way of accommodation and tents, assuring the President of even better deals
next year when his Board fully takes over negotiations.

“With your kind approval this year, we are working to take
full charge of Makhan accommodation because hitherto, the states have been in
charge. The idea is that when we take full charge, we will be able to reduce
further the cost and to do this, we need to engage the accommodation agents and
owners in a possible two to three-year lease with a view to having a reduction
in price,” he said.

Alhaji Hassan also appealed to the President to constitute
the Board of Trustees of the Hajj Savings Scheme to make it easier for pilgrims
to perform their religious obligation.

He further assured that he was in discussions with the
Federal Ministry of Health on the Covid-19 pandemic as the Commission aligns
itself with government positions in tackling the scourge.