Individuals involved in the current Hajj process have praised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for effectively managing the transportation of pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, even amidst the worldwide rise in aviation fuel costs caused by the continuous conflict between the United States and Iran.
The stakeholders observed that concerns about potential interruptions in Hajj activities caused by the rise in oil prices did not occur, as the transportation of Nigerian pilgrims has proceeded without issue in multiple states, without imposing extra costs on those planning to go on the pilgrimage.
Approximately 31,000 of the 50,000 Nigerian pilgrims have already reached Saudi Arabia.
“The federal government has truly stepped in to help us. The government provided a 30 percent discount on aviation fuel, which helped lower the significant rise in aviation fuel costs for the airlift operation,” he explained.
He also commended the present leadership of NAHCON for what he characterized as active and relentless initiatives aimed at shielding pilgrims from the impact of rising global oil prices.
“The new administration in NAHCON has been diligently working to prevent pilgrims from facing the burden alone. They quickly reached out to the Federal Government and made sure that all existing arrangements stayed in place,” he said.
He stated that travelers were not required to pay extra fees even though the rise in fuel costs presented difficulties.
“We appreciate that pilgrims are not being required to pay additional fees for the Hajj process. All arrangements have been proceeding smoothly and perfectly. We express our gratitude to Almighty God for this chance and for the assistance provided by the Federal Government and NAHCON,” Ajomagberin added.
Additionally, the Finance Director of the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board, Suraj Ashu, stated that the flight from Yola to Madinah was completed successfully and on schedule.
“We arrived yesterday evening, and everything has been perfect,” he stated.
Ashu mentioned that travelers from Adamawa State were flown from Yola International Airport to Madinah as planned, with no issues encountered.
“Our travelers did not incur additional fees even with the rise in oil costs. The air travel plans went smoothly as we did not miss our scheduled dates. The date provided to us was precisely the day we were evacuated,” he said.
A representative from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s Evaluation and Recognition Committee for the 2026 Hajj mission, Taofeek Adeleke, also voiced approval of the current activities following discussions with pilgrims in Madinah.
“Well, things have been going well so far. We attempted to contact some of the pilgrims and inquire about their journey since they are our main focus. They are the individuals who have paid to fulfill this religious duty,” he said.
He stated that the feedback from pilgrims had been favorable, particularly concerning transport, lodging, and support services.
“Most importantly, we also took into account the worldwide rise in fuel costs and questioned whether any official in their respective states requested additional funds to supplement what they had previously paid. All of them confirmed that no extra amount was paid,” Adeleke said.
He mentioned that travelers also praised the welcome they received when they arrived in Saudi Arabia.
“Since they arrived in Madinah, they have informed us that it has been a very positive experience, particularly the vehicles that transported them from the airport to their lodging. Some NAHCON staff were also present on the ground to help them with their rooms,” he said.
Adeleke also mentioned that the provisions for travelers were equally satisfactory.
“The individuals responsible for providing food are consistently present to offer them meals at least two times each day. We are highly impressed,” he added.
Several pilgrims who arrived in Saudi Arabia also commended NAHCON and the Federal Government for ensuring that the rise in worldwide fuel costs did not lead to extra financial pressure on those planning to undertake the pilgrimage.
A pilgrim from Adamawa State, Aisha Abubakar, characterized the air transport and welcoming procedure as efficient and well-structured, mentioning that staff members quickly assisted pilgrims when they arrived.
A different traveler from Adamawa State, Zarau Saidu, praised the officials for keeping the original Hajj cost even as aviation fuel prices rose worldwide.
Likewise, Abdullah Nabunkari from Taraba State commended the smooth coordination of transport, lodging, and meal provisions in Madinah.
The travelers characterized the continuous Hajj process as well-organized and without tension, while showing gratitude for the efficient management of flights and other arrangements.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
