Fake News: NAHCON trains information Officers, media Directors
Inspite of the cancellation of the 2021 Hajj for international pilgrims by the authority of Saudi Arabia, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has organised a one-day seminar organised for its information offices, state Public relations officers , Spokespersons and Head of media at pilgrims welfare boards by the commission across the nation.
Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan at the opening remarks said the effect of untimely and accurate information dissemination has hinder flow of information reaching their public.
The theme of the event ” Hajj, Communicatios and COVID-19 Pandemic”, for the participants to understand the importance of managing expectations and the backlash of the two failed Hajj season, equip them with current and timely information, sourcing accurate news through the right channel by all States information managers against the syndrome fake news.
Alhiji Zikrullah who expressed saddeness by the outbourt of the cancellation of 2021 hajj pilgrimage described the situation as ‘ near turbulence”.
He assured intending Hajj Pilgrims from the country of getting their deposits made since 2019.
He said, it is imperative that COVID-19 might not leave any time soon but a strong wishful thinking, however , if large percent of footbal viewers in Europe can manage this, it is better for hajj managers to take a queue on to avoid further cancellation.
He also react to the Overwhelming limited slots allocation consecutive hajj cancellation will be the solution to the next Hajj.
” Those who wish to to roll-over in anticipation of the next Hajj can retain their deposit with the state welfare boards or migrate their monies into Hajj Savings Scheme with Jaiz Bank” he added.
” We are aware of the effect of monetary devaluation face of unstable Naira exchange rate to Dollar, this will be cushion through the return on investment when deposit with the Hajj Savings Scheme. He stated.
He also renewed his appeal for a collaborative effort with states’s board and chief executives forum to provide a unique platform for exchanging ideas for better servicing the wellbeing of the intending Pilgrims.
By Kabir ABDULSALAM
