The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has ensured that the welfare and religious rites of Nigerian pilgrims are well coordinated despite the shortage of staff. According to Alhaji Ibrahim Idris Mahmoud, the NAHCON Coordinator in Madinah, the commission is working hand in hand with state officials to ensure the wellbeing of the pilgrims. Despite the complaints about the quality of food served to the pilgrims, the commission has engaged enough caterers to provide food through their state officials. The commission has warned, cautioned, and sanctioned service providers to ensure compliance with their contractual agreement.
About 43,817 Nigerian pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia, and many more are expected. NAHCON has secured visitation permits for over 30,000 Nigerian pilgrims to visit and pray in Prophet Mohammed’s mosque, Harami, and other sacred places. The commission has dedicated officers to book for pilgrims, and state officials are expected to liaise with the officials to obtain permits for their respective states. The commission also ensures that state officials get buses to transport the pilgrims to other places in Madinah.
In terms of medical services, the commission has three clinics located in strategic locations close to most Nigerian pilgrims’ hotels. The commission provides transportation for Nigerian pilgrims who need medical attention, and if there is a need to take any pilgrim to a Saudi hospital, the commission will do that. The commission also monitors service providers to ensure that they comply with the terms of their contractual agreement.
In conclusion, the NAHCON has shown a commitment to the welfare and religious rites of Nigerian pilgrims despite the shortage of staff. The commission has put measures in place to ensure the wellbeing of the pilgrims and has engaged service providers and caterers to provide quality services and food. The pilgrims can rest assured that NAHCON is dedicated to their welfare and will ensure that they have a fulfilling Hajj experience.
