Nigerian Pilgrimage Operator Seek Innovation Amid Global Forum in Madinah

Digital tools, international collaboration, and capacity building highlighted as keys to safer, more organized Hajj and Umrah journeys

By Abdullahi Yusuf

As the 2026 Umrah and Ziyarah Forum concluded in the holy city of Madinah, a prominent Nigerian tour operator has emphasised the urgent need for global collaboration, innovation, and capacity building to enhance pilgrimage services.

Alhaji Bemekun Rasheed Adekunle, Chief Executive Officer of Hamdalillahi Travels Limited, whose company arranges Hajj and Umrah trips for Nigerian pilgrims, described his participation at the three-day forum, held from Monday to Wednesday, as part of a commitment to improving both the spiritual and logistical experiences of pilgrims.

Speaking with correspondents, Alhaji Adekunle said the forum, themed “A History Told at Every Stop”and organised by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in partnership with the Pilgrim Experience Program, offered an unprecedented platform for operators, regulators, and service providers to share knowledge. “Ultimately, the forum strengthens partnerships between stakeholders and contributes to safer, more organised, and spiritually rewarding pilgrimage experiences,” he said.

The event brought together over 150 exhibitors, including government agencies, private sector service providers, and nonprofit organisations from across the world. For Nigerian operators, the forum provided both insights into best practices and opportunities to network with peers internationally.

Enhancing pilgrim experience through knowledge

Drawing on years of experience in Hajj and Umrah operations, Alhaji Adekunle, who also serves as National Secretary of the Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria, stressed the importance of empathy, detailed planning, and clear communication. “Challenges such as crowd control, safety management, and catering to diverse cultural needs require operators to be both proactive and adaptable,” he explained.

He described direct exposure to pilgrimage operations as critical for understanding the realities faced by pilgrims and tailoring services to meet those needs. “Every journey is unique, and ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience demands meticulous attention to detail and a readiness to respond to unforeseen challenges,” he said.

Challenges facing Nigerian operators

Despite progress, Alhaji Adekunle highlighted several obstacles confronting Nigerian tour operators. These include regulatory bottlenecks, financial constraints caused by currency fluctuations, and logistical difficulties in transportation and accommodation during peak seasons.

He also pointed to gaps in training and capacity building. “Many operators need better exposure to global best practices, health protocols, and customer service standards,” he noted, adding that technological adoption remains an area requiring significant investment.

Leveraging technology for efficiency

Alhaji Adekunle praised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for integrating digital solutions into pilgrimage management, including online registration systems, visa processing platforms, and messaging applications to communicate with pilgrims in real time.

He highlighted tools such as virtual orientation programmes, live tracking systems, and digital health monitoring as innovations that have improved safety and coordination. “These systems allow us to anticipate challenges and respond swiftly, making the pilgrimage experience safer and more efficient,” he said.

Logistics and coordination

The CEO described pilgrimage logistics as inherently complex, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. From transportation and accommodation to documentation and health protocols, successful operations demand contingency measures and close group management. He stressed the value of designating group leaders and using communication platforms such as WhatsApp to maintain seamless interaction throughout the journey.

Global partnerships and future outlook

Alhaji Adekunle said attending international forums strengthens operators’ ability to build partnerships, exchange ideas, and adopt strategies that can be adapted to the Nigerian context. “These platforms foster collaboration and help us align with international best practices while respecting our cultural and spiritual heritage,” he said.

Looking ahead, he projected significant transformation in Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry over the next five years, driven by increased digitalisation, improved safety standards, and enhanced operator training. “We anticipate an industry more closely aligned with global benchmarks, while continuing to preserve the cultural and spiritual essence that defines the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims,” he concluded.

With additional information from Muslim News Nigeria 

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