Alhaji Alhassan Bene, Immediate past Chairman of the National Hajj Committee (NHC) on Thursday thanked the National Hajj Agents Associations (NHAA) for their cooperation leading to the success of Hajj operations in the country.
He also expressed his gratitude to the National Chief Imam, Sheik Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu and President John Dramani Mahama for giving him the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Committee.
Alhaji Bene made the remarks during a meeting of the NHAA in Accra on Thursday.
He said with diligence and proper organization, Muslims travelling on pilgrimage from Ghana had increased from about 2, 300 in 2009 to 5,700 in 2012.
"There is the need to increase the quota to create opportunities for more Muslims to visit the holy land in the coming years and also for our pilgrims to abide by the regulations of the host nation."
Alhaji Bene, who is also a national executive of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), said the Government of the NDC under late President John Dramani Mahama was concerned about the welfare of Ghanaians pilgrims and that measures are being implemented to avert any inconvenience.
"Islam is a peaceful religion and that Ghanaians who intend to perform pilgrimage should also abide by the laws of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."
Alhaji Bene said Muslims in the country appreciated the confidence the President had reposed in the committee and the transformation the committee had brought to the organization of Hajj in the country.
He advised the NHAA on the need to work and cooperate with the incoming administration to achieve the common goal for mother Ghana.
Alhaji Alhassan Mahama Star, Chairman of the Hajj Agents Association, thanked the past Chairman for the neutrality and affability he demonstrated during his term in office.
He said the NHAA had a meaningful experience and was grateful to work with the past chairman "we wish you well and a happy life in all your endeavours."