The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has successfully secured accommodation in Mashair for 52,000 intending Nigerian pilgrims before the Saudi Arabian deadline. This achievement was confirmed in a statement released by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Usara. The Commission has already paid for 26,287 spaces, with an additional 26,000 spaces reserved and expected to be fully secured by February 13, subject to the completion of remittances.
The proactive initiative to reserve space in Mashair, spearheaded by NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Usman, ensures compliance with the February 14 deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU) for finalizing contract agreements by participating countries. Usara mentioned that Usman traveled to Saudi Arabia with the approval of Vice President Kashim Shettima to finalize the Mashair accommodation contracts, a crucial requirement for visa uploads set to begin on February 19.
The agreement was officially sealed on January 17 at NAHCON’s Ummul Judd office in Makkah, following extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including the Forum of State Chairmen, NAHCON board members, and a representative of the presidency.
Professor Usman expressed gratitude to the Vice President for his support and trust in the Commission’s operations, allowing swift and decisive action in preparing for a seamless Hajj process for Nigerian pilgrims in 2025. The Vice President’s prompt response to the request to travel to Saudi Arabia to address any challenges has proven beneficial, with the reservation now successfully finalized.
Intending pilgrims were assured that all necessary preparations are in place for a smooth and hassle-free Hajj experience. They were encouraged to stay informed through NAHCON’s official news channels and remain patient as the Commission finalizes arrangements for their participation.