NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m
Foreign

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

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By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has advised pilgrims to stay in their tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to soaring daytime temperatures during the pilgrimage.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, gave the advice while speaking to newsmen in Makkah on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Saudi Arabia, through its National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), had on Sunday issued heatwave warnings for Hajj 2025.

The centre urged pilgrims to take precautions amid soaring daytime temperatures between 40°C and 47°C.

The NCM forecasted challenging weather, including high temperatures, potential thunderstorms, and reduced visibility.

Saleh said NAHCON had a stakeholders’ meeting with all the Nigeria Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Boards.

He said the boards were mandated to tell their pilgrims that no pilgrim would be allowed out of their  tents in Mina and Arafat due to soaring temperature.

“Yesterday we called all the stakeholders. We met with them and mandated them to announce and tell their people that nobody is allowed to be out of the tent from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.

“It is not advised to go out because the temperature is not normal this year. We also advised them to continue drinking water.

“If it is necessary to be outside, let them go with water in hand. Let them take their umbrellas and use them, because the temperature is not normal.

The NAHCON chairman urged the media to help the commission to disseminate the information to the pilgrims to adhere to the heatwave warnings.

“So, media, please you are our eyes, you are our voice to the public. Help us tell our people to adhere to this instruction.”

NAN reports that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims are expected for the 2025 Hajj. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

2025 Hajj: NAHCON tasks clerics on sensitisation
Foreign

2025 Hajj: NAHCON tasks clerics on sensitisation

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By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged its Ulama team to sensitise Nigerian pilgrims on the rudiments of the pilgrimage before performing Hajj rites.

 

Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, NAHCON Commissioner Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS), said this while speaking with newsmen in Madina on Wednesday.

 

“Yesterday I was busy with Ulama team. I had three meetings with them, with their groups, where we sensitised them about their responsibilities in this Hajj operation.

 

“We categorise them into three. There are those that are preaching to enlighten our pilgrims on how to perform their Hajj, and there are those who are to pray for our country.

 

“There is one group that will ask and answer pilgrims’ questions. If any pilgrim has problem in knowing what to do, they will ask and they will get answers, ” he said.

 

He said before he left Nigeria for Madina, the Hajj operation was going smoothly.

 

“In terms of airlifting the pilgrims, all our centres of evacuation, our pilgrims were okay. And I know also, before coming, I was hearing the report from Madina that everything is going smoothly,” he said.

 

He said the commission’s medical team also briefed him on how it had been performing since the beginning of the operation.

 

“I met with some of our medical doctors and they briefed me on how they have been going through since the beginning of the operation. Alhamdulillahi, there is no challenge that they cannot solve,” he said.

 

He said that the medical team had drugs, amd it had established medical outposts to attend to patients.

 

“They are treating our pilgrims without any problem. So far, so good. They have not told me any case that is difficult for them to solve,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

25,075 Nigerian pilgrims transported to Makkah with Nusuk cards – NAHCON
Foreign

25,075 Nigerian pilgrims transported to Makkah with Nusuk cards – NAHCON

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By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says 25,075 Nigerian pilgrims have so far been transported to Makkah from Madina with their Nusuk cards.

Alhaji Abdulkadri Oloyin, the Coordinator, Madina NAHCON Office, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen in Madina on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made it mandatory for pilgrims from all countries participating in the 2025 hajj to have Nusuk cards displaying their details.

The ministry explained that the card was for easy identification of genuine pilgrims as well as for gaining access to the holy sites in Makkah.

Oloyin, who said that no pilgrims left Madina for Makkah without Nusuk cards, said that NAHCON had already collected 25,075 Nusuk cards.

“They have already been collected by Nigeria and distributed to our pilgrims. And if you compare it with the number of those that have left Madina for Makkah, it is accurate.

“Anyone that has not collected it, there may be those who will move among officials ahead, but they have registered them, and they will collect their Nusuk cards.

“As for ordinary pilgrims, all their Nusuk cards have been issued already,” the NAHCON coordinator said.

According to him, NAHCON’s work has been very commendable but in everything, there must be challenges.

“But there is no serious challenge that has not been attended to.

“The biggest challenges that we had when we started the operation in Madina was cooperation from the local authorities,” he said.

Je said that instead of issuing the Nusuk cards in Makkah, the Saudi authorities brought it down to Madina.

He said that this was done to ensure that no pilgrim left Madina for Makkah without having Nusuk.

“This is done so that it will not cause a lot of traffic at the eve of entering Mashair.

“All pilgrims, including officials, were issued an urgent visa. They directed us to drop our passport at the airport.

“The purpose of dropping the passport at the airport is for them to make arrangements for each one of the Nusuk,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Hajj 2025: NAHCON reiterates commitment to excellent service
General News

Hajj 2025: NAHCON reiterates commitment to excellent service

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Muhammad Musa, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Head of Public Affairs, says Nigeria pilgrims are out to enjoy better services in all areas during the 2025 Hajj exercise.

 

Musa said this on Friday in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, adding that NAHCON Chairman Prof. Abdullahi Saleh was already making last minute arrangements to ensure this objective.

 

He said that Saleh is leading an official delegation to assess the preparedness of key service providers responsibility for pilgrims’ welfare during the sacred journey.

Musa said that the assessment was part of NAHCON’s commitment to safeguarding pilgrims’ welfare and comfort, working closely with service providers to ensure a seamless, spiritually fulfilling experience for pilgrims.

 

Musa said that the NAHCON chair visited offices of Mashariq Aldhahabiah, a Saudi Arabian company contracted to provide  Masha’ir services, and Ekram Aldyf, another service provider.

 

“Following your recent visit to Nigeria, it is important we remain updated on new developments and any emerging challenges. Our primary goal is ensuring every Nigerian pilgrim receives diligent and efficient services throughout their pilgrimage.”

The Chairman of Mashariq Aldhahabiah, Muhammad Andergiri, appreciated NAHCON’s continued vigilance and dedication to the welfare of pilgrims.

 

“Our company remains fully committed and prepared to deliver superior services. We have arranged an inspection of the tents in Masha’ir to demonstrate our readiness and reassure NAHCON of our capabilities,” Andergiri said.

 

The Commissioner in charge of Operations, Prince Anofi’u Elegusi, stressed the importance of transparency and clarity, stating “NAHCON must stay fully informed about each stage of service delivery contracts.

 

‘’I urge you to prioritise top-notch sanitation facilities and ensure the highest standards for Nigerian pilgrims.”

Musa said that during the visit to Ekram Aldyf, Saleh reiterated NAHCON’s expectations for excellence.

 

“The success of Saudi authorities in managing pilgrim welfare stems from unwavering commitment to the comfort of Allah’s guests.

 

‘’Our presence here reaffirms our dedication to collaborating proactively and addressing potential challenges collectively, ensuring a memorable pilgrimage experience for Nigerians,” he said.

 

Ekram Aldyf’s leadership assured NAHCON of their complete preparedness, detailing staff allocations and showcasing samples of materials designated for pilgrims during their stay at the Holy sites.

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

NAHCON remains committed to pilgrims’ spiritual wellbeing- Official
Religious

NAHCON remains committed to pilgrims’ spiritual wellbeing- Official

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The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) will continue to strive in giving a transformative example for an ethical governance.

 

This is with the vision of reaffirming its commitment to the spiritual well-being of every Nigerian Pilgrim at the Holy Lands of Makkah and Madinah.

 

Muhammad Musa, NAHCON Head of Public Affairs, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

 

Musa said that the commission has been striving for best services in its mission to secure a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj for the Nigerian Pilgrims.

 

‘’Its leadership has navigated a maze of bureaucratic red tape in an environment marked by relentless opposition, with a quest for transparency and reforms which has become a beacon of hope for millions of devoted believers.

 

‘’The journey towards meaningful change in Hajj management began with the courageous leadership of figures such as Sheikh Abubakar Mahmoud Gummi. (He was) targeted by a group of ethnic sheikhs, involved in defrauding Pilgrims.’’

 

He said that the new Chairman of the commission, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, has vowed to take up the mantle of reform with determination in collaboration with his team.

 

Musa said that Usman also pledged to introduce initiatives aimed at streamlining Hajj operations and safeguarding the interests of Nigerian Pilgrims.

 

‘’As usual, these progressive measures could provoke fierce backlash, smear campaigns and covert acts of sabotage that may derail progress and undermine public confidence in the reform movement.

 

‘’Against the odds, Professor Usman reiterated his determination to assert that only services commensurate to Pilgrims’ value for their money would be accepted because it is a sacred trust that must never be compromised.

 

‘’For the Nigerian Pilgrims, an efficiently managed Hajj industry is essential to ensuring a spiritually enriching Hajj experience.

 

‘’When the Hajj stakeholders operates with integrity, every Pilgrim embarks on their journey with confidence and dignity, assured that their sacred pilgrimage is handled with the utmost care and respect,’’ he said.

 

Musa said that the new reforms were not only simply a policy issue but a commitment to honour, responsibility and ethical governance.

 

He called for public support for these transformative changes, adding that it would empower every reform-minded leader to challenge entrenched negative practices.

 

Musa also urged government officials, Hajj managers, reform advocates and Pilgrims to unite in the pursuit of a system that honours both the spiritual and logistical dimensions of the pilgrimage.

 

‘’The journey towards comprehensive reform is fraught with peril, the promise of a more transparent and respectful Hajj continues to inspire change across Nigeria.

 

‘’This collective effort reinforces the NAHCON’s commitment to ethical governance and will ensure that the Hajj remains a spiritual journey defined by honour and collective responsibility,’’ Musa said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

NAHCON reiterates commitment to Pilgrims’ welfare
General News

NAHCON reiterates commitment to Pilgrims’ welfare

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The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it is engaging with the Saudi service provider, Mashariq al Dhahabia, over alleged contract breach.

 

NAHCON head of Public Affairs, Muhammad Musa, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

 

Musa said that the NAHCON has a record of keeping to contractual commitments since its inception.

 

“NAHCON has been honouring all contractual commitments, upholding the standards of transparency and accountability.

 

“On January 17, 2025, during a pre-Hajj visit following the Hajj exhibition, NAHCON and Mashariq al Dhahabia entered into an agreement to provide ground and Masha’ir services for Nigerian States’ Pilgrims.

 

“The decision to supplement Mashariq’s services with an additional provider was made after identifying operational challenges specifically, issues with Mashariq’s listing on the Saudi Visa Portal, Nusuk,” Musa said.

 

He said in spite of the identified challenges and to ensure pilgrim welfare, NAHCON’s proactive decision to engage a supplementary provider was driven by the need to meet stringent Saudi deadlines and to ensure uninterrupted service to Nigerian Pilgrims.

 

“NAHCON is also committed to excellence, transparency and the welfare of Nigerian Pilgrims in service provision of this sacred journey.

 

“Subsequent corrective actions by Mashariq al Dhahabia, NAHCON’s proactive decision to engage a supplementary provider was driven by the need to meet stringent Saudi deadlines and to ensure uninterrupted service to Nigerian Pilgrims.”

 

He said NAHCON would continue to explore all corrective measures to settle all perceived misunderstandings arising from the alleged legal action to be taken by the said service provider, Mashariq al Dhahabia.

 

He said all action by NAHCON would be guided by the mission to guarantee optimum service to Nigerian pilgrims.

 

“NAHCON firmly rejects any attempt to create confusion or compromise the welfare of the Nigerian Pilgrims.

 

“Instead the Commission’s strategy is to foster a competitive environment that is aimed at reducing costs and enhancing service quality.

 

“NAHCON remains steadfast in its commitment to contractual integrity and the well-being of the Nigerian Pilgrims.

 

“The Commission will continue striving to operate with transparency and accountability, undeterred by allegations or attempts to undermine its mission.”(NAN)

IS

 

No Nigerian pilgrim will miss 2025 Hajj – Shettima
General News

No Nigerian pilgrim will miss 2025 Hajj – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has assured that no Nigerian intending pilgrim will miss the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Shettima stated this during a meeting with the Management and Board of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), on Monday Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Shettima summoned the meeting following the reported contractual dispute between NAHCON and Saudi service provider, Mashariq Al-Dhahabiah, which may lead to visa denials for Nigerian pilgrims.

The Vice-President also emphasised that the 2025 Hajj operations would be hitch free.

Shettima directed the leadership of NAHCON to take all necessary measures to ensure a smooth and unhindered pilgrimage for all the nation’s intending pilgrims.

“We will not allow any Nigerian intending pilgrim to miss the 2025 Hajj. The pilgrimage will be seamless, and every challenge will be addressed promptly,” Shettima assured.

He directed NAHCON leadership to take all necessary steps to protect the interests of Nigerian pilgrims.

“NAHCON must do whatever it takes to guarantee the full participation of our pilgrims without any hindrance.

“From now on, we must have to set the right standards, move in the right direction and have a hitch-free Hajj exercise.”

On the purported contract cancellation with the Saudi-based company, NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Saleh Usman, reassured Nigerians that the issue would not affect the pilgrimage.

“There is no cause for alarm. No single registered pilgrim will be left behind,” Usman said.

He also dismissed allegations by the Forum of Chief Executive Officers of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions that the contract dispute could truncate the 2025 Hajj operations.

NAN recalls that the Forum through its Secretary, Abubakar Salihu, had raised concern over the cancellation of the service provider contract by the Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Saleh Usman.

The forum argued that thousands of Nigerian intending pilgrims might not perform the 2025 Hajj due to the cancellation of service provider contract by NAHCON leadership. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

2023 Hajj: NAHCON refunds N5.3bn to states, tour operators
General News

2023 Hajj: NAHCON refunds N5.3bn to states, tour operators

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has disbursed N4.4 billion refund to the 36 states’ Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the Armed Forces.

The Head, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Malam Muhammad Musa, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Musa said the refund was pertaining to the Masha’ir (core Hajj period) electricity services not rendered properly by the Saudi Authorities during the 2023 Hajj.

“In addition, the commission has refunded a sum of N917,148,479.99 to 192 accredited Tour Companies that participated in the 2023 hajj.

”This amount is intended for onward disbursement to their respective pilgrims, while the remaining participating companies will also be refunded after due reconciliation.

“This refund underscores NAHCON’s commitment, under the leadership of its Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, to uphold transparency and accountability in the management of Hajj operations.”

According to Musa, all pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj, are advised to contact their respective State Pilgrims’ Welfare Agencies, Boards and Commissions or tour operators to claim their refunds.

“Each Pilgrim, is entitled to receive a refund of N61,080.00. A detailed breakdown of the number of pilgrims per state and the corresponding amounts is attached to this press statement.

“The commission hereby calls upon all 2025 Hajj intending pilgrims to promptly deposit their Hajj fares with their respective state pilgrims boards.

“This measure is essential to ensure the timely transmission of funds to NAHCON, thereby facilitating early arrangements of the 2025 Hajj in strict compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“In the interest of transparency and due process, NAHCON calls upon the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant security agencies to closely monitor the refund process.

“This collaboration aims to ensure that all refunds are appropriately disbursed and reached the intended beneficiaries without any discrepancy,” Musa said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

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