BY ABDUL-KADIR ABDULLAH
As Nigeria intensifies its preparations for the 2025 Hajj exercise, the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has joined the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on a critical pre-Hajj assessment tour of key accommodation sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The inspection, which focused on facilities in Mina and Arafat, was part of NAHCON’s broader strategy to ensure Nigerian pilgrims enjoy improved welfare and logistical support during the annual pilgrimage.
The Edo State delegation was led by the Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musah Muhammad Uduimoh, and the Executive Secretary, Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir.
Both officials were actively involved in the detailed inspection of the expansive tent cities in Mina and Arafat, where pilgrims will spend crucial days of devotion during the Hajj.
In a voice note shared via WhatsApp, Chairman Uduimoh provided insights into the scope of the inspection.
According to him, the delegation paid particular attention to the general quality and condition of the facilities, including the availability and functionality of air-cooling systems, the quality and number of sleeping arrangements, sanitation provisions, and overall spatial adequacy for pilgrims.
“We looked at the state of the bedding arrangements, the fans and air-conditioning systems, and the water supply and sanitation, especially the toilets,” Uduimoh explained. “We were satisfied with what we saw. There are real improvements this year.”
He described the facilities in Mina, also known as the “City of Tents,” as significantly better than in previous years, crediting the collaborative efforts of NAHCON and its Saudi-based service providers for the upgrade.
The improvements, he said, reflect the seriousness with which the Nigerian Hajj authorities are approaching pilgrims’ welfare in 2025.
NAHCON sources close to the delegation confirmed that the Commission has entered into new agreements with service providers to ensure that the accommodation, feeding, and movement of Nigerian pilgrims meet global standards.
A particular emphasis, they said, has been placed on the comfort and safety of pilgrims, in line with directives from the Commission’s leadership.
Chairman Uduimoh noted that Edo pilgrims stand to benefit directly from these enhanced services.
“We are not just observers; we are participants in ensuring that Edo pilgrims get the best experience possible this year. Our presence here is proof of that commitment,” he added.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his support and for prioritising the welfare of intending pilgrims from Edo State, noting that the state government has consistently supported the Board’s operational and logistical arrangements in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“The government of Edo State has been supportive in making sure our pilgrims are not left behind in terms of quality service and proper preparation,” he said.
“We have seen for ourselves the tremendous improvement in this year’s arrangements. With what NAHCON is doing, and with our own efforts, Edo pilgrims are going to get the best.”
As the Hajj season approaches, the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has reaffirmed its readiness to deliver a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all registered pilgrims from the state.
Further briefings and training for pilgrims are expected in the weeks ahead to ensure they are fully prepared for the rites and logistics of the journey.
