Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Ibrahim Modibbo, has called for greater coordination and improvements in managing Nigerian pilgrims during Hajj, citing several challenges observed during the 2025 exercise.
Speaking during a post-Hajj meeting in Makkah, Dr. Modibbo emphasized the need for Nigerian Hajj officials to better guide pilgrims. He noted that Saudi authorities had raised concerns about Nigerian pilgrims wandering without proper supervision. He stressed that many of the pilgrims were first-time travellers who required constant assistance.
He urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state officials to work closely with the Nigerian Embassy and Consulate in future operations to ensure better service delivery and protect Nigeria’s image abroad. “Our job is to ensure the image and integrity of Nigeria remain high,” he said.
Dr. Modibbo also highlighted concerns over the quality of accommodation provided to pilgrims, describing some camp conditions as overcrowded and inadequate despite the high costs paid. He offered the Embassy’s assistance in future negotiations to secure better arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to take stock and prepare for a much-improved Hajj operation next year, stressing that proper collaboration was key to success.
