By Soliu Oyesiji
Officials of state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards have commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and Saudi service providers for improved arrangements at Mina and Arafat for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Executive Secretary of the Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Imam AbdulRahaman, praised the new facilities provided for pilgrims, especially the redesigned beds at Mina.
He said the chair-like beds created more movement space inside the tents and also provided storage areas for pilgrims’ luggage.
AbdulRahaman also lauded the shaded walkways and resting areas installed between tents, saying the improvements would protect pilgrims from the harsh weather conditions.
“I really commend the arrangement from Mashariq Al-Dhahabiyah. All these changes are better for intending pilgrims,” he said.
Similarly, Chairman of the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, expressed satisfaction with the facilities inspected at Mina and Arafat.
He said the board confirmed that the allocated beds were complete and adequate for pilgrims from the state.
Olamide commended the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, the service providers and NAHCON for their commitment to pilgrims’ welfare.
He specifically praised the leadership of NAHCON under its chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, for what he described as a successful coordination of arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims.
“We are satisfied with their services and effort. Everything is okay,” he said.
