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| Nigerian Pilgrim Honoured for Returning $5,000 Lost in Makkah |
In a heartwarming display of honesty and integrity, a Nigerian pilgrim in Makkah has returned a lost sum of $5,000 (approximately ₦8.24 million at ₦1,648/$) to its rightful Russian owner. The incident occurred at the revered Masjidul Haram on Tuesday.
The commendable act was confirmed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Plateau State Pilgrims Board, led by Hon. Daiyabu Dauda.
“She has set a shining example of honesty and compassion by returning the lost money. This is the kind of character every Muslim should strive to uphold,” Dauda stated. “Her actions reflect the true spirit of Islam — integrity, empathy, and selflessness. May her story continue to inspire many.”
Visa Talks Ongoing for Stranded Pilgrims
Meanwhile, NAHCON has disclosed ongoing talks with Saudi authorities regarding the temporary suspension of visa issuance. Several nations, including Nigeria, are lobbying for the reopening of visa processing to allow more pilgrims to participate in this year’s Hajj.
Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publications, expressed optimism about the discussions. “We are hopeful for a favourable outcome. Once visa approval is secured, a special arrangement will be made to transport the remaining registered pilgrims to Makkah,” she said.
NAHCON has deployed standby staff to manage the situation swiftly once visa processing resumes. “We want to reassure affected pilgrims that we are fully engaged with Saudi authorities to secure a resolution as soon as possible,” Usara added.
Final Batch of Government-Sponsored Pilgrims Airlifted
FlyNas, one of the key carriers for Nigerian pilgrims, has successfully completed the airlift of government-quota pilgrims ahead of the initial May 29 deadline. The final batch, comprising pilgrims from Kebbi State, arrived safely in Saudi Arabia on Monday, bringing the total number transported to 41,546.
In a special flight scheduled for May 28, the Commission's chairman, Abdullahi Usman, along with other top officials and 22 previously unaccommodated pilgrims, will be flown to Makkah. These include 13 pilgrims from Nasarawa, three from the FCT, and six from Kaduna.
Additionally, UMZA Aviation has announced private flights for licensed tour operators on May 29 and 30, with some VIPs expected to join the journey.
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