Accra: President John Mahama has inaugurated a seven-member hajj board with a mandate to plan, manage, and execute all matters relating to hajj operations in Ghana.

Alhaji Abdul Rauf Ibrahim Tanko, a former Hajj Board Chairman has been reappointed as Board Chair with Shaibu Mahama, Member of Parliament (MP) for Daboya/Mankarigu, serving as administrator.

The board also has the Chief Executive Director of the University of Ghana Medical Centre, Dr Abdul Samed Tanko, serving as a member.

The remaining members are Alimatu Issahak, Alhaji Amadu Tanko, Alhaji Masaud Abubakar and Chief Ahmed Ibrahiim.

At the inauguration ceremony held on Friday, President Mahama assured that the government will not only provide logistical support to ensure the success of the pilgrimage but will demand accountability under periodic guidelines that includes reporting to the chief of staff.

“At the end of each Hajj season, I expect a comprehensive report that covers the finances, logistics, health and safety outcomes, and the lessons learnt to be presented to the Chief of Staff for preparation for the following year.

“This transparency will not only sustain public confidence but also ensure that future boards inherit reliable institutional memory,” he said.

He cautioned board members against condoning acts that would lead to the exploitation of or profiteering from pilgrims with unofficial levies and hidden charges.

“It is haram to exploit the sweat of a poor pilgrim. It is unacceptable for pilgrims, many of whom have saved for years, to suffer anxiety, confusion, or unfair treatment at the hands of officials or especially middlemen.” He said.

He called for the removal and sanctioning of any official or agent who is engaged in extortion, adding that “We owe it to the pilgrims and to Allah to protect the integrity of this sacred journey.”

He urged the Board to work with precision and integrity in the areas of planning, transparency and accountability, coordination, discipline and communication with key partners.

“Announce schedules, registration processes, and cost structures promptly for pilgrims and agents so they can plan effectively. Last-minute changes must become a thing of the past.

“Please coordinate with the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Transport, and our Embassy in Riyadh to guarantee safe travel, decent accommodation, and adequate medical support,” he said.