By Soliu Oyesiji
The Forum of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards has commended the overall conduct of the 2026 Hajj, particularly services provided in Mina, while calling for improvements in some areas ahead of future pilgrimages.
Speaking during a post-Arafat review meeting organised by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria in Makkah, the forum’s representative and Acting Chairman of the Adamawa State Pilgrims Welfare Commission, Mallam Salihu Abubakar, said the states were generally satisfied with the services rendered throughout the pilgrimage.
Abubakar described the outbound airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia as hitch-free, awarding it an “excellent” rating. He also praised accommodation and feeding arrangements in Madinah, noting that although there were minor challenges, services were largely satisfactory.
According to him, accommodation in Makkah was decent in most states despite difficulties encountered before visa processing commenced, adding that there was still room for improvement in some locations.
On services in Mina and other Mashair locations, Abubakar acknowledged that pilgrims experienced several challenges but commended NAHCON for standing by pilgrims throughout the period.
“We had very many challenges in Mashair, but the fact that NAHCON was always there and stood with the pilgrims reassured us. There is room for improvement, and we will jointly review the services in detail,” he said.
He added that despite the shortcomings, services in Mashair could still be rated highly and expressed appreciation to the National Assembly, led by Senator Ali Ndume, for its commitment to pilgrims’ welfare.
Abubakar assured NAHCON Chairman, Amb Abbah Ismail Yusuf of the states’ continued support in efforts to improve future Hajj operations. He also called for a review of issues relating to the National Medical Team.
The forum representative further commended operational staff of both NAHCON and state pilgrims’ boards for their dedication in Madinah, Makkah and Mashair, saying their efforts contributed significantly to the success of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
