Makkah: A cleric, Sheikh Nura Khalid, has urged Nigerian pilgrims to exercise patience with Hajj authorities as they make efforts to ensure they have a comfortable stay in Makkah. Khalid, the Founder of the Islamic Research and Da’awa Foundation, made the call while addressing pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Oyo State on their arrival to Makkah from Madinah.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Hajj exercise, especially when pilgrims are wearing the ihram (white two-piece garment), requires a lot of patience. Khalid emphasized the need for an attitudinal change, stressing that they are in Makkah not only to pray for themselves but also for Nigeria as a whole. He commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for offering hospitality services to the pilgrims, noting that the quality and quantity of food provided is perfect and the hotel rooms are conveniently located near Haram.
Khalid also urged NAHCON to make efforts in influencing Saudi authorities to increase the participation of Nigerians in visiting the Rawda, the burial chamber of the Prophet Muhammad. He mentioned that many pilgrims, including himself, have visited Hajj several times without gaining access to the Rawda.
In addition, Abdullahi Barkindo, the Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman of Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrimage and Welfare Commission, praised NAHCON for its welfare services to the pilgrims. Barkindo, who arrived with the Adamawa pilgrims in Makkah from Madinah, acknowledged the accommodation and nutritious meals provided by NAHCON.
Muhammed Ibrahim, a board member of the Bauchi State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board, also expressed satisfaction with NAHCON’s cooperation and efforts to ensure the comfort of Bauchi pilgrims.