Hajj NAHCON To Break JAIZ Bank Monopoly Of HAJJ Savings Scheme

The two-day event held at the Musa Yar’Adua International Centre, Abuja was themed on: Partnership, Collaboration and Teamwork.”

It was sponsored by Lotus Bank and was declared open by the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima (GCON). Also in attendance were: His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar(CFR), Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, NSCIA; Honourable Minister of FCT; Minister of Aviation; Chairman-Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs; Chairman-House Committee On Hajj Affairs; Secretary-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs; The Ambassador Of Saudi-Arabia, …among other dignitaries.

The Chairman/CEO of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) who made his opening speech, declared the long awaited inaugural flight date. He slated 15th May 2024 for the inaugural ceremony in Kebbi State. The Chairman made it known that there will be two extra flights to depart from other Airports the same day, and that NCAA approved a total of 10 Airports for the Hajj airlift this year. He also stated that 15th May will be the end of all Visa issuances.

The sessions went by with open discussions on matters relating to Hajj. Many of the stakeholders that commented on the impact of Hajj Saving Scheme (HSS) expressed dissatisfaction, blaming the ineptness on Jaiz Bank. One mentioned that the national sensitization of the scheme that was undertaken by the 4th Board was fully sponsored by NAHCON while Jaiz, the principal beneficiary of the proceeds did not show any support. It was said that there is no mechanism in place for the sensitization of the public or major advert of the Scheme by the bank.

Overwhelming call on NAHCON leadership to license other Islamic Banks to end the monopoly of Jaiz bank as the sole operator of the scheme was conspicuous and loud. In the absence of Jaiz bank representatives at the summit, Mr. Aliyu Buhari, a former employee of Jaiz who represented the Alternative Bank where he currently works, managed to put up a limited defense for Jaiz bank listing a few efforts Jaiz made to mitigate some raised issues when he was there.

Stakeholders Call to extend licenses to the remaining 4 full-fledged Islamic banks in the country was unanimous. It was mentioned that if other banks are licensed to operate Hajj Savings Scheme, there will be a healthier competition and perhaps Jaiz Bank may step up.

During general remark session, there were some interesting issues that surfaced. Our interest was drawn to a particular revelation that needs to be echoed. It is the circumstances surrounding the appointment of NAHCON Chairman/CEO.

Since Jalal Ahmed Arabi assumed office, mixed information about the man and his appointment has been trickling in. He is called “a high handed bureaucrat, a seasoned Administrator, Hardline public servant…and so on. Such names calling seemed to cloud my understanding of the man until we met in person. In a somewhat fact-finding mission, he seems a simple man, open and welcoming, ever smiley, and a fully down to earth individual. Still skeptical about my assertion came a revelation of his character by his confidant, a long term friend his and ally who narrated what transpired before Mr. Arabi accepted the Chairmanship of NAHCON. It was said right in the presence of the Chairman, who neither interjected nor objected.

To shorten the lengthy mail, we were informed how Mr. Arabi consistently refused to accept the Chairmanship appointment of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Despite the prestigious nature of the appointment, Mr. Arabi declined the offer more than three times. He cited the reason for his hesitation was the lack of positive signs in his istikhara prayer, a form of prayer in Islam to seek Allah’s guidance in making important decisions.

Jalal Ahmad Arabi (OON) is a man of principle that is known for his integrity and dedication to serving God.

He is not moved by worldly wants and he works with meticulousness. The narrator expressed how frustrated they (Arabi’s Friends and mentors) became on his persistent refusal despite persuasions and pressures.
After much contemplation, soul-searching and discussion with those closest to him, Jalal Ahmed Arabi finally relented and accepted the appointment. It is understandable that he made the sacrifice in order to create real change. He saw it as an opportunity to bring about positive change and serve the Nigerian Muslim Ummah in a different capacity. He was willing to adapt and evolve, even if it meant stepping outside of his comfort zone.

As Ahmed settled into his new position, he wasted no time in implementing changes that would foster discipline and progress within the Commission and Hajj industry. He is introducing new transformative potential initiatives, streamlining Hajj processes and working tirelessly to tackle the challenges that Hajj industry in Nigeria has been facing for decades.

Finally, Arabi’s story serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership requires a willingness to challenge oneself and make some sacrifices for a better future for all. His dedication, integrity and commitment to excellence have already begun to yield results. Mr. Arabi is proving to be a valuable asset to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and a beacon of integrity and leadership for others to emulate. The practical test of his hard work will hopefully pay off come Hajj 2024, inshAllah.

Dr. Suleman Afikpo
EX-Fed. Commissioner Representing South East at NAHCON And Chairman, South Eastern Muslim Organisation (SEMON)