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Author: Salisu Saniidris

  • Hajj Flynas begins transportation of Nigerian pilgrims back home Saturday

    Transportation

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Makkah (Saudi Arabia), June 21, 2024 (NAN) Flynas, a Saudi-designated air carrier, says it will commence the transportation of the first batch of Nigerian pilgrims back home on Saturday.

    The Managing Director, First Planet Travels and General Sales Agent (GSA) of Flynas, Alhaji Umar Kaila, said this in a statement on Friday in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

    He said the maiden return flight would begin with the pilgrims from Kebbi from the King AbdulAziz International Airport, Jeddah to Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport (SABIA) in Birnin Kebbi.

    Kaila said, ” We are happy to announce that Flynas is fully set to begin phase two of the airlift operation of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia to Nigeria from Saturday, June 22, with pilgrims from Kebbi state.

    “Like we had a seamless transportation operation from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia during phase one without any delay.

    ” We have made adequate arrangements to transport our pilgrims back to Nigeria in a seamless and efficient manner.”

    He said the airline has concluded arrangements to ensure a smooth and seamless return airlift operation from Saudi Arabia to Nigeria.

    Kaila added,  Flynas will transport pilgrims from Kebbi, Lagos, Sokoto, Zamfara, Yobe, Borno, Osun, Ogun, and Niger states back to Nigeria in the second leg of the operation. ”

    He said the airline would conduct the return operation in 49 flights with five aircraft.

    The Makkah Coordinator of the airline, Malam Ahmad Ruma, said ground staff of Flynas have started processing Kebbi state pilgrims in their accommodations in the holy city of Makkah.

    He  said, “Our staff have already processed the Kebbi state pilgrims for the first return flight.

    ” They met them in their accommodations in Makkah, manifested them in the aircraft, weighed and tagged their 32-kg luggage, among others.”

    The Makkah coordinator said the airline has also started processing pilgrims from Lagos state for the return journey.

    Flynas is one of the three airlines engaged by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to transport over 50,000 state pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for 2024 hajj pilgrimage.

    The two others are Max Air and Air Peace. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    SSI/BRM

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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Nigerian pilgrim returns lost $800, other currencies in Makkah

    Pilgrim

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Makkah (Saudi Arabia), June 19, 2024 (NAN) Malam Abba Limawa, 52, a Nigerian pilgrim from Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State, has returned 10,500 Russian rubles, 800 dollars and 690 Saudi Riyals, he found, to the authority in Makkah.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Limawa, handed over the different currencies to the Executive Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Malam Jalal Arabi during the post-Afarat conference, held on Wednesday in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

    The pilgrims explained that he found the money inside a waist bag, while on his way to pray at the Masjid Haram (Mosque).

    ” Initially, I wanted to ignore the waist bag and moved to the Mosque, but on a second thought, I said it might belong to a Nigerian, especially some of our old women.

    “So, I decided to pick it, and I proceeded to the mosque. When I returned to my accommodation, I opened the bag and discovered that there is no Nigerian currency and no any sign that it belonged to a Nigerian.

    ” Immediately, I approached one of the officials of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, narrated the story and presented the money to him.

    ” From there, he commended me for showing an exemplary character and honesty and told me that he will handover the money to the NAHCON, to ensure that the owner gets his or her money,” he said.

    Responding, Arabi commended Limawa for being honest and projecting the image of Nigeria positively at the international arena.

    Earlier, in his presentation on the outcome of the just concluded Hajj ritual, the NAHCON boss explained that the aim of the post-Afarat conference was to review what had transpired.

    “This will enable us to have a sincere post-mortem of what we did at the battle field and improve on the success recorded.”

    Arabi disclosed that Saudi government had released the time-table and timeline for the 2025 Hajj operation on Tuesday.

    ” Perhaps by Thursday we will have known what they allocate (Hajj slots allocation) to each nation of the world, how the visas will commence.

    ” But interestingly for the first time, they (Saudi authority) have opened the e-portal as from Tuesday.”

    He, therefore, called on the States Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Tour Operators and all other stakeholders to take notes of the development.

    Also, the Head of Aviation of NAHCON, Malam Goni Sanda, said that three flights carrying pilgrims from Kebbi, Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will take off to Nigeria on June 22. (NAN)

    SSI/ROT

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    Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

  • Shettima reaffirms FG’s commitment to north east’s economic revival

    Development

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to driving economic revival and development in the North East region of the country.

    Shettima stated this while laying the foundation for the new headquarters building of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in Maiduguri.

    A statement on the ceremony was made available to newsmen on Wednesday by Mr Stanley Nkwocha, the spokesperson of the Vice-President.

    The Vice-President, in the statement, stressed that the only way to reclaim and shape the narrative of the North-East region was to bring everyone together.

    According to him, the event was a demonstration of President Bola Tinubu’s promise, an assurance of his commitment, and a reminder of the importance of the region to the nation.

    Shettima noted that it was a deep honour for him to be present to witness the commencement of a legacy of service that would outlast all those in attendance.

    ” NEDC is a product of the people, and it shall serve the interests of the nation. It is this foundational principle that guides the NEDC.

    ” This institution, therefore, embodies our collective resolve to transform the narrative of this region—from one marred by despair and devastation to one defined by renewal and triumph.

    “Today is a demonstration of our promise, an assurance of our commitment, and a reminder of what this sub-region means to the nation,” he said.

    He explained that the foundation-laying ceremony was a step towards fulfilling President Tinubu’s promise to prioritise initiatives that safeguard the interests of the North East region.

    “This promise is not merely a political commitment but a moral obligation to the people who have endured so much and deserve nothing less than a future defined by peace, stability, and prosperity.”

    Shettima stressed that the new head office surpasses mere infrastructure, embodying the strength of the nation’s collective will to rebuild, restore, and overcome the challenges that have hindered the region’s progress.

    “This head office shall symbolise the strength of our shared aspirations as a people with shared objectives. As we lay this foundation, we do so with a vision of a North-East that is vibrant, resilient, and forward-looking.

    “We do so imagining our contributions to building a nation where every child has access to quality education; healthcare is accessible to all; infrastructure supports thriving economies, and peace and security are the bedrock of daily life.”

    The Vice-President also inspected progress on the first phase of construction on the 27km Jere Bowl Road Network in Mafa/Jere local government area, just as he also performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the project.

    The projects, Shettima noted, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the development and prosperity of Borno State.

    “This project symbolises our dedication to improving the lives of our people, enhancing security, and fostering economic growth.

    ” It is a testament to our unwavering resolve to build a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to thrive.

    ” A robust road network accelerates the process of urbanization,” he said.

    Shettima added: “As rural areas become more accessible, we will witness the development of new urban centers, leading to better access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.

    “Each road we construct supports security, commerce, and agriculture. They enhance the standard of living for our people.

    ” Without a reliable network of roads, we cannot fulfil our promises to the people, nor can we sustain our democracy. The full participation of remote communities in our nation’s development depends on a dependable road network”.

    The Vice-President further stated that the economic agenda of President Tinubu was rooted in supporting each state of the federation in achieving its objectives and fulfilling our promises to the nation.

    “Borno State holds a pivotal role in our nation’s economy and will always remain a top priority in our efforts to stabilise and promote unity and peace across the nation,” he added

    Earlier, Gov. Muhammad Inuwa of Gombe, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, praised the Vice President for mobilising support for the smooth operations of the NEDC.

    “We are very proud of what you are doing as our leader in the North East by ensuring the smooth take-off of this project as well as enhancing the operations of the NEDC,” Governor Yahaya stated.

    He called on Governors and other stakeholders from the North East states to work towards achieving the goals of the NEDC.

    He, however, lamented the devastating effect of the Boko Haram insurgency, which he said took the North East zone 50 years backwards.

    “We therefore need to work hard to recover the lost grounds, and with Vice President Shettima’s motivation and support, we can achieve that,” he added.

    The Deputy Governor of Borno, Usman Kadafur, applauded the good work so far done by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in the six states of the region.

    “The effort of the NEDC is adjudged a quite successful story and it is the pride of the various state governments across the North East region,” he said

    The Chairman, Governing Board of NEDC, retired Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa, said the laying of the foundation for the construction of a befitting headquarters has opened a new chapter in the history of the commission and symbolizes growth.

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Mohammed Alkali said the event was a milestone in the history of NEDC and the entire North East region.

    He noted that the master plan for the North East is in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.

    He further sought for cooperation and synergy among stakeholders in order to realise its objectives. (NAN)

    SSI/ROT

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    Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

     

  • Eid el-Kabir: Foundation, UAE distribute meat to women, vulnerable in FCT

     

    Distribution

    by Salisu Sani-Idris

    Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Helpline Social Support Initiative, an NGO, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Nigeria shared meat during the Eid el-Kabir to women, vulnerable groups and persons living with disabilities in the FCT.

    Dr Jumai Ahmadu, Founder of the initiative, who made this known on Wednesday, thanked the UAE Embassy for their kindness and dedication to making a positive impact in the FCT.

    Ahmadu said that the gesture demonstrates the embassy’s commitment to community support through the spreading of joy and compassion to those in need.

    She also commended the embassy for identifying with the initiative, saying ” this is the third year it is supporting the needy in Abuja and its environs with this gesture.”

    ” Their generous contribution of meat donations benefited our women and individuals living with disabilities, spreading joy and compassion to those in need.

    ” This marks the third consecutive year of their support, which has made a significant difference in the lives of our beneficiaries, including internally displaced persons (IDPs).

    ” We are grateful for their kindness and dedication to making a positive impact in our community.

    ” Thank you to the UAE Embassy for their unwavering support and to our team for their tireless efforts in serving our community.”

    She noted that Eid el Kabir was an opportunity and occasion to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged especially women.

    Ahmadu, therefore called on other relevant organisations at all levels to go beyond “funfairs that characterised every festivities and use such occasions to empower the vulnerable in the society. (NAN)

    SSI/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • Nusuk card didn’t stop illegal migrants from accessing Hajj camp- NAHCON

    Card

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia), June 19, 2024 (NAN) The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says the Nusuk card introduced by Saudi authorities to prevent illegal migrants from gaining access to pilgrims’ tents at the sites of hajj rituals didn’t achieve its essence totally.

    Dr Aliyu Tanko, the Chairman, Committee on Movement of Pilgrims, said this in an interview with newsmen on Tuesday at Mina in Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nusuk card is a crucial document introduced by Saudi authorities for identification of pilgrims to enable them again access to sites of hajj rituals.

    The introduction of the card became necessary due to the increased incidence of fake pilgrims and illegal migrants during the core hajj rites period in the past.

    Tanko said, “Unfortunately, even before the arrival of Nigerian pilgrims at the ritual sites, illegal migrants have already gained access to the area.

    ” To be frank with you, even before we left Makkah to Mina with our pilgrims, illegal migrants have gained access to the area, in spite of the introduction of the NUSUK card for easy identification of real pilgrims.

    ” And that has clearly shown that the NUSUK card introduced by the Saudi authority to prevent illegal people from gaining access to tents in Mina, Arafat and Muzzalifah has failed.

    ” Therefore, the essence of the card has not been achieved, even though it has worked to some extent but the objective of stopping fake pilgrims and illegal migrants has not been totally achieved.”

    Tanko, however, said that with the support of the Saudi authorities, the commission was able to overcome most of the challenges anticipated during the hajj.

    He said, ” To Allah be the glory, we have come to the end of the 2024 Hajj rites in Mina and the pilgrims have returned to Makkah, which signaled the conclusion of the exercise.

    ” The 2024 Hajj came with a lot of things and we have overcome all the challenges we anticipated.

    ” Therefore, we have recorded tremendous successes.”

    NAN reports the NAHCON officials on Monday intercepted two illegal migrants of Nigerian descent, Muhammed Umar and Nazifi Tasi’u GARBA,. over infiltration of the pilgrims’ tents amidst concerns regarding overstretched accommodation and petty theft.

    Consequently, the suspects were handed over to the Saudi Police, where their biometrics were obtained and a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals was imposed on each of them to be paid whenever they were leaving the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    SSIBRM

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    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • Extreme heat: Nigeria loses pilgrim

    Heat

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia), June 17, 2024 (NAN) A Nigerian pilgrim, who was on his way to Jamrate to perform the ritual of throwing stones, has collapsed and eventually died due to heatstroke.

    Head of Nigeria’s Medical Team for the 2024 Hajj, Dr Abubakar Adamu, confirmed this in an interview with newsmen on Monday in Mina, Saudi Arabia.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had, around 11a.m., stopped pilgrims from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11a.m. to 4p.m., due to excessive heat.

    The pilgrims were cautioned against flouting Saudi authorities directive that prohibits them from the ritual of throwing stones within the stipulated time.

    Adamu said that even before the commencement of thechajj operation, he had sensitised members of the medical team to ways to prevent heatstroke that could arise from heatwave.

    He advised pilgrims to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the heatwave sun.

    He implored the pilgrims to always seek shade whenever possible to avoid direct sunlight.

    Adamu also empahaised the need for pilgrims to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty.

    ”Pilgrims are also advised to pay close attention to all health advisories and instructions provided by the medical team.

    ”To limit sun exposure, pilgrims should avoid going outside during peak heat. They should also refrain from walking in the sun.”

    Also, the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Mrs Fatima Usara, said that the commission had been doing its best to educate the pilgrims, about the risk factors associated with exposing themselves to sun.

    Also, Dr Kabir Moha, said at least 14 Jordanian pilgrims have died while on the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as temperatures soar in the kingdom.

    Jordan’s foreign ministry said, “14 Jordanian pilgrims died and 17 others were missing” during the performance of hajj rituals.

    It said its nationals had died “after suffering sun stroke due to the extreme heatwave” and that it had coordinated with Saudi authorities to bury the dead in Saudi Arabia, or transfer them to Jordan.

    The Iranian Red Crescent chief, Pir Hossein Kolivand, said “five Iranian pilgrims have lost their lives so far in Mecca and Medina during the hajj this year”, but did not say how they died.

    Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, a spokesperson for the Saudi health ministry, told reporters that more than 2,760 pilgrims suffered from sunstroke and heat stress on Sunday alone.

    Saudi Arabia has not provided any information on fatalities.

    The heat reached 47C (116.6F) in Mecca on Sunday, a temperature that was forecast to continue on Monday. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    SSI/AMM

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • Insecurity: Radda visits Katsina pilgrims in Mina, harps on prayers

    Prayers

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia) June 17, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina on Monday paid Eid-el Kabir visit to the state pilgrims in the tent city of Mina in Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that currently no fewer than 2,600 pilgrims from Katsina are undergoing hajj rite in Saudi Arabia.

    Radda, while addressing newsmen shortly after inspecting the tent, urged the pilgrims to continue to pray for the security, peace and harmony in the state and the country in general.

    “In fact, the impact of your prayers here in the holy city has started manifesting in Katsina because just about five days ago, security agencies have killed about 150 bandits in Katsina.

    “This is a clear testimony that God almighty has answered and when you return to Makkah continue to intensify prayers for the restoration of peace in the state.”

    The governor also advised all the pilgrims to continue to be patient, saying “this is the place where every Muslim is wishing to be.

    “God has blessed you by bringing you here and I hope that you will continue to pray for the state and the country and almighty Allah should guide us in the discharge of our responsibilities at whatever capacities.

    “I want to thank the Katsina State Amirul Hajj and all the officials of the state, who have been here with the pilgrims day and night trying to serve them.”

    Radda expressed satisfaction with the accommodation and feeding arrangements put in place for pilgrims, by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)

    “I have gone through all the activities both in Madina and Makkah and I have gone through all the activities of pilgrims in Arafat, Mina and Muzzalifah and we are so grateful with what we saw on ground.

    “We are so happy with the pilgrims from Katsina, who have exhibited a sense of maturity, honesty, perseverance and resilience.

    “We thank them very much for doing that and I hope and pray that they will continue to intensify prayers for the good of our country.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    SSI/AMM

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    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • Extreme heat: Saudi stops pilgrims from ritual of throwing stones for 5hrs

    Extreme heat:  Saudi stops pilgrims from ritual of throwing stones for 5hrs

    Temperature

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia), June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has stopped pilgrims from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11a.m. to 4p.m. due to extreme heat

    The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman, issue the directive in a statement on Monday in Mina, Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    He said that measure became necessary I’m order to ensure the well-being of pilgrims amidst high temperatures and to prevent heat stress.

    ” Accordingly, the following measures have been implemented: Pilgrims are prohibited from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from11.a.m to 4.pm.”

    He said that security personnel would be stationed at camps to enforce the restriction and prevent any pilgrim from departing before 4p.m.

    He urged the Office of Hajj Affairs and service providers to ensure compliance, adding that they they would be held responsible for any violations thereof.

    ” We pray for Allah’s protection over the pilgrims and the acceptance of their Hajj.”

    Meanwhile, the official of the Nigeria’s Hajj Commission has intercepted two illegal migrants of Nigerian decent ( Muhammed Umar and Nazifi Tasi’u GARBA), over infiltration of pilgrims tents amidst concerns regarding overstretched accommodation and petty theft.

    Consequently, the suspects were handed over to the Saudi Police, where their biometrics were obtained and a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals was imposed on them to be paid whenever they are leaving the country.

    NAN reports that the Jamarat are three pillars located in Mecca and are an important part of the Hajj pilgrimage for Muslims.

    As part of their pilgrimage to Mecca, pilgrims throw pebbles at the pillars to symbolically “stone the devil.”

    The Stoning of the Devil—or rajm al-jamarat, translated as throwing pebbles—is a way for Muslims to reject temptation, affirm their faith in Allah, and honor the Prophet Ibrahim.

    NAN reports that according  to the Saudi Gazette, more than 1.83 million pilgrims performed this year’s hajj.

    A total of 1,833,164 pilgrims came from within the Kingdom and abroad to perform the annual pilgrimage and they included 1,611,310 foreign pilgrims and 221,854 domestic pilgrims, both citizens and expatriates.(NAN)

    SSI/SH

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    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • 2024 Hajj: Egyptian President commends Saudi’s excellent management

    Hajj

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Makkah (Saudi Arabia), June 16, 2024 (NAN) President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt has commended Saudi authorities for the excellent organisation of the ongoing 2024 Hajj rite.

    El-Sisi, who is one of the pilgrims that performed the exercise, gave the commendation on his verified official social media account, on Sunday.

    He also applauded the services provided to millions of pilgrims, catering to all their needs, security and safety.

    “I extend my sincere thanks to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques – King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince – for the warm welcome in Saudi Arabia on the occasion of performing this year’s Hajj.”

    A Nigerian pilgrim from Sokoto, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, 33, also commended Saudi Arabia for effective crowds control.

    “Imagine a gathering of over 1.5 million people from around the world; the authority in Saudi was able to manage the movement of people peacefully, from one point to another.”

    On the lesson he learned as a pilgrim, Abubakar said Hajj symbolises the equality of all Muslims, regardless of their personality and irrespective of their status.

    “Just take a second look at this tent where we are, you will see high profile personalities that ordinarily in Nigeria, I can’t even think of going close to them.

    “But here we are, sharing almost the same mattress and pillows without any social segregation or discrimination. This has truly affirmed that a Muslim is a brother of his fellow Muslim.

    “May Allah continue to guide our leaders in Nigeria and give them the ability to deliver on their campaign promises.”

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that crowds of pilgrims are moving on foot to the stoning areas.

    Some were seen pushing disabled pilgrims on wheelchairs on a multi-lane road leading to the complex housing the large pillars.

    Most pilgrims were seen carrying umbrellas to protect themselves against the burning summer sun.

    After reaching Mina, the pilgrims performed stoning at Jamarat (biggest pillar symbolising Satan), following the ‘Sunnah’ of the Prophet.

    They used seven pebbles for the stoning ritual. The pilgrims’ movement to hurl pebbles at Jamrat was smooth, orderly and flexible on the floors of the giant Jamarat bridge complex with all the precautionary measures in place. (NAN)

    SSI/NCI/ETS

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    Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna/Ephraims Sheyin

     

  • We are committed to delivering best services to Pilgrims – NAHCON

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