Senate Indicts Private Operators On Pilgrims Welfare

MEMBERS of the Committee on Federal Character and Inter-governmental Affairs have criticised private pilgrim operators over non-commitment to welfare of the nation’s pilgrims.

The Senator Dahiru Kuta-led committee spoke during a familiarisation tour of the headquarters of Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission over the weekend.

The lawmakers said the responsibility of providing healthcare facilities and other welfare packages that will promote the comfort of pilgrims in holy land should not be left entirely in the hands of the commission.

“It is very unfortunate that some private operators do not care for the welfare of pilgrims. The commission’s initiative at ensuring that pilgrims are taken care of and their ability to address other issues affecting the smooth running of the board is a welcome development,” Kuta said.

The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, Mr. John Opara, earlier in his remarks, briefed committee members on some of the management’s efforts at repositioning the commission. These, he stated, include the establishment of additional six offices across the geo-political zones of the country from where pilgrim operations would also be conducted.

He also disclosed the commission’s plans to conduct pilgrimage twice a year, upon  approved by the presidency.

Other efforts put in place for smooth running of operations, include proper screening of intending pilgrims to ensure that people with sinister intentions are stopped from travelling.

He lamented that the essence of the pilgrimage is transformation but some individuals have turned it into a cheap means of absconding from the country.

“Because of this, the commission ensures that no one is granted visa unless a letter from the commission accompanies the application. Some are even denied travelling at the airport,” he added.