NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DELEGATION COMMENDS HAJJ OPERATIONS DURING OVERSIGHT VISIT TO PILGRIMS’ TENTS IN MINA
A delegation from the National Assembly, charged with oversight responsibilities over the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has commended the ongoing 2026 Hajj operations following an inspection tour of Nigerian pilgrims’ tents in Mina.
The visit formed part of the National Assembly’s statutory mandate to monitor Hajj operations and ensure that Nigerian pilgrims receive efficient and quality services throughout their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
During the inspection, the delegation toured several state tents accommodating Nigerian pilgrims, where members engaged directly with pilgrims and officials overseeing their welfare. Pilgrims and state coordinators expressed satisfaction with the services being provided by NAHCON, particularly in the areas of accommodation and feeding.
Many pilgrims praised the quality and consistency of meals served throughout their stay in Mina. However, they appealed for a wider inclusion of Nigerian local dishes in future Hajj operations, noting that many elderly pilgrims are more accustomed to local cuisine and often find it difficult to adapt to some of the meals currently provided.
The pilgrims also raised concerns about the need for more toilet facilities within the camps, pointing out that existing amenities often lead to long queues, especially during peak periods. They urged the relevant authorities to increase the number of facilities to improve comfort, convenience, and sanitation.
They further expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and for the support provided toward the successful conduct of the Hajj exercise. The pilgrims also thanked the National Assembly delegation for the visit and for personally assessing their conditions and concerns.
Speaking during the visit, the leader of the delegation, Ali Noume urged pilgrims to continue praying for peace, security, stability, and prosperity in Nigeria. He encouraged them to remember the nation’s leaders, their families, and fellow citizens in their supplications while performing the sacred rites of Hajj.
Senator Noume assured the pilgrims that all observations and concerns raised during the tour would be documented and given due attention. He explained that while some of the issues highlighted fall under the jurisdiction of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and state governments, matters directly concerning NAHCON would be reflected in the committee’s recommendations in its oversight report.
Also addressing the pilgrims, the Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj and Umrah, Ja’afar Mohammed reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly and the Federal Government to the welfare and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims.
He assured them that their feedback would be carefully considered as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Hajj administration and improve service delivery. Honourable Mohammed also encouraged the pilgrims to pray for Nigeria’s unity, peace, and continued progress, as well as for the President, their families, and loved ones.
The visit underscores the National Assembly’s continued commitment to supporting effective Hajj administration and ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims receive the care and services required to perform their pilgrimage in comfort and dignity.
