The National Hajj Commission has commended the Saudi Arabia government for its continuous commitment to enhancing excellent Hajj experience for millions of pilgrims through innovative investments in infrastructure and security.
NAHCON Chairman, Amb Ismail Abba Yusuf made the commendation at the official reception and luncheon hosted by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz.
The event, which was held at the Royal Palace in Mina, near Makkah, brought together international Islamic leaders, diplomats, and Heads of National Hajj Missions.
According to a report by Suwaiba Ahmed of the Hajj body, NAHCON boss hailed Saudi’s implementation of digital solutions for crowd management, affirming that “it is an honor to meet and greet the Crown Prince, and witness first hand”, extra-ordinary royal hospitality.
He disclosed that the gathering provided a rare opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties, and share ideas with related global dignitaries on best practices in Hajj administration and management.
The NAHCON’s Chairman reiterated dedication to transparency, efficient service delivery, and enhanced pilgrim welfare for the remainder of the Hajj operations, assuring that the commission’s monitoring teams are working diligently to ensure the best standard of care for Nigerian pilgrims.
The reception which was hosted by the Saudi Arabian government was graced by Chief Justice of the Federation, Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun and the Minister of Information and National Orientation Alhaji Mohammed Idris.
Meanwhile, NAHCON Chairman has been commended for spearheading a smooth Hajj exercise.
Representative of the Supreme Council For Islamic Affairs, Prof Mahfus Adedemeji, made the commendation, commending Yusuf as a competent administrator.
According to a report by Rasheeda Kako, Adedimeji gave the accolades when the management of the NAHCON paid an official visit to the Southwest pilgrims’ tent in Muna during just concluded 2026 Hajj exercise, which featured discussions on pilgrims’ welfare, Hajj operations, and preparations for future exercises.
He encouraged pilgrims to maintain the good values and spiritual lessons learned during Hajj after returning home, cautioning pilgrims about the harsh Saudi Arabian weather, advising them to stay indoors whenever necessary to avoid illness.
The academic praised the Ondo State Pilgrims Welfare Board for its efforts and expressed optimism that services to Nigerian pilgrims would improve yearly.
Prof Adedemeji disclosed that NAHCON had received no negative reports from Ogun State pilgrims, urging intending pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj to begin payment in installments early to ease financial burdens.
Southwest Board member, Alhaji Tajudeen Abefe Oladejob addressed issues relating to aviation fuel scarcity, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intervened to resolve the challenge.
He conveyed NAHCON’s appreciation to Nigerian pilgrims and apologized for any shortcomings experienced during the exercise.
Commending the Lagos State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Oladejo acknowledged their commitment and exposure in handling pilgrims’ affairs, and explained that discussions were ongoing regarding the commencement of return flights for pilgrims back to Nigeria.
He further emphasized Nigeria’s reputation as a nation of integrity despite global economic challenges and rising food prices, urging all pilgrims to continue praying for President Tinubu for divine guidance and success in leading the nation.
The NAHCON Board team comprised Alhaji Tajudeen Abefe Oladejo; representative of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Professor Mahfus Adedemeji; Director of Administration and Human Resources, Alhaji Alidu Shutti; former Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Hajia Khadijat Olanipekun and other NAHCON officials.
