Don’t carry prohibited items into Saudi

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), on Wednesday warned the 2024 Hajj pilgrims against carrying any prohibited items into Saudi Arabia.

The Executive Chairman of NAHCON, Malam Jalal Arabi, issued the warning at the inauguration of the 2024 National Hajj operations, held at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

Arabi also emphasised the need for the pilgrims to utilise the special privilege they have to serve Allah and avoid being distracted.

“I implore you all to avoid any conduct that would dent your image and the image of our dear country.He said that the NAHCON had made the necessary arrangements for pilgrims’ comfort.

“Do not hesitate to contact any of our official for assistance when in need, because they are there to serve you.

“We reduced the length of stay in Madinah from eight days to four days and charged a fee commensurate with the four days.

“In doing this, we cut down the Madinah accommodation fees significantly after bargaining for the same luxurious hotels.

“’We reduced the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) from 800 dollars to 500 dollars after taking into consideration that any pilgrim in need of more dollars can source them on their own.

“We believe we have made enough accommodation and feeding arrangements that will not warrant the pilgrims spending extra on these amenities.

“Therefore, 500 dollars would suffice in this global cash crunch times.

He commended the teamwork spirit that the commission under his leadership had been enjoying from the States’ Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards.

Arabi thanked Gov. Nasir Idris of Kebbi for facilitating the successful launch of the inaugural flight as scheduled.

He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for standing up, intervening when it mattered most, and ensuring that “Nigerians perform this year’s Hajj when all hopes were lost.”

He enjoined pilgrims and NAHCON officials to pray for Nigeria and its leaders.