The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria says it will restructure the operation of its national medical team to reduce costs and the number of personnel.

Acting NAHCON chair Jalal Arabi announced this Friday in a statement by Mousa Ubandawaki, the agency’s spokesman.

Mr Arabi spoke after receiving a report from the committee on the medical team guidelines review at the Hajj House boardroom.

He explained that the move was part of plans to achieve efficient and effective healthcare management during Hajj operations.

The NAHCON chief said, “The restructuring of the operation of the NMT is expected to ensure accessibility and healthy operation that will help to achieve cost reduction and the number of personnel in the face of the nation’s current economic reality.

“One of the proposals is the institution of the concept of volunteerism in the appointment of medical personnel into the NMT. This will entail the procurement of travel visas, provision of accommodation, transportation and payment of stipends to applicants who have been appointed into the national medical team.”

Presenting the report, Saidu Dumbulwa, who headed the 18-member committee, disclosed that the report would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the team during the 2024 Hajj, said the statement.

Mr Dumbulwa stressed that the report would offer the commission a roadmap to financing and the provision of health services to intending pilgrims in Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“I am confident that the implementation of the report will yield positive and desired results within the shortest possible time,” he stated. 

(NAN)