By SHAFII SANI MOHAMMED

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has inaugurated the Committee that will review the national medical team guidelines as preparation for the 2025 Hajj operations build up.

The committee is made up of medical experts, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders to deliberate on critical health strategies for the upcoming year.

Inaugurating the committee Commissioner Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services, PRSILS, NAHCON and Chairman of the National Medical Team, Professor Abubakar Yagawal expressed his confidence in the abilities of the team to execute the task assigned and reminded them that they were carefully chosen as whatever the outcome is, it will be for the benefit of Nigerian Pilgrims who are the guests of Allah.

In his opening address, the committee chairman, Dr. Saidu Ahmad Dumbulwa reaffirmed the commitment of all members to adapt and implement the new directives effectively.

He highlighted the annual nature of the updates and assured participants that the team was well-prepared to handle the evolving responsibilities.

Dr Dumbuwal expressed gratitude to the Commissioner PRSILS for inaugurating the committee and acknowledged the vital role played by medical experts and stakeholders in achieving past successes. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in addressing the conference?s terms of reference, which include:

? Reviewing the 2025 guidelines and refining implementation strategies.

? Forecasting and assessing costs for drugs and consumables, both onshore and offshore.

? Aligning medical allowances with international standards.

? Disseminating and ensuring compliance with new Saudi medical policies.

? Establishing robust medical emergency services at camps, supported by the Federal Ministry of Health.

? Training medical personnel and screened participants for effective service delivery.

? Enhancing coordination between federal and state agencies under a unified leadership.

The committee also aims to address cardiovascular health and other medical concerns while ensuring compliance with the Federal Ministry of Health?s overarching policies.

?This is not the first time we are taking on such a mandate. Last year, we faced similar challenges and achieved remarkable outcomes through collaboration and expertise. I am confident that we can replicate and exceed those successes,? he added.

The committee Chairman promises to provide a platform for robust discussions and actionable outcomes. Participants expressed optimism about the committee?s work/ deliberations potential to shape health policies and ensure a seamless implementation of the 2025 health guidelines in time for 2025 Hajj Operations.

?Shafii Sani Mohammed is of the Information and Publications Division of NAHCON.

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