- Starting in 2025, Saudi companies will handle the feeding and accommodation of Nigerian pilgrims during Hajj, despite calls for local involvement
- The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria confirmed that the new policy applies to all countries participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage
Starting in 2025, Saudi Arabian companies will be responsible for feeding and accommodation of Nigerian pilgrims during the Hajj, despite calls from state governments for local involvement. Saudi authorities introduced this new policy to have Saudi companies, known as Mu’assasa, handle these services throughout the pilgrims’ stay.
The Mu’assasa had previously taken charge of feeding and accommodation during the five-day holy pilgrimage in Muna, known as the Masha’ir, in 2022. However, many Nigerian pilgrims expressed dissatisfaction due to the lack of familiar, local foods. In response, there were calls for these responsibilities to be handed back to state pilgrim boards to provide culturally appropriate meals.
A statement from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), signed by spokesperson Fatima Sanda Usara, clarified that the new Saudi policy will affect all countries participating in the 2025 Hajj. The information was shared during a virtual meeting between NAHCON officials and the Kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Prince Anofi Olanrewaju Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, emphasized the importance of cooperation and praised state pilgrim boards for their proactive efforts in preparing for Hajj. He also updated stakeholders on unresolved refunds from the 2024 Hajj.
Malam Idris Almakura, Chairman of the Forum of States and Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Pilgrims’ Board, acknowledged NAHCON’s efforts and encouraged them to continue addressing concerns such as the Hajj Savings Scheme, medical team policies, and outstanding refunds for pilgrims.