The Chairman/CEO, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, on Tuesday, assured Nigerian pilgrims participating in this year’s Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that the commission will refund them savings from the renegotiated cost of feeding services during the first leg of the operation in Madinah.

The NAHCON boss stated this in his goodwill message to Nigerian pilgrims on their successful participation in this year’s Day of Arafat, which marks the peak of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

According to him, in order to better safeguard the interests of Nigerian pilgrims, the commission remains committed to reviewing the operational challenges observed during this year’s Hajj operation with a view to correcting shortcomings and strengthening supervision.

“Indeed, NAHCON itself was established as a response to many of the challenges that once affected Hajj administration in Nigeria, and we remain committed to upholding the vision of our founding fathers with dedication, discipline and sincerity of purpose.

“In line with this commitment, we are pleased to inform our pilgrims that the Commission successfully renegotiated the cost of feeding services in Madinah, and the resulting savings will be refunded directly to pilgrims,” Ambassador Yusuf stated.

While felicitating Nigerian pilgrims on the occasion of this year’s Arafat Day, Yusuf said the day stands as a day of mercy, forgiveness, supplication and total submission to Allah.

“As Nigerian pilgrims join millions of Muslims across the world on the sacred Day of Arafat, we extend heartfelt prayers and warm greetings to all our pilgrims on this significant occasion.

“The Day of Arafat stands as the pinnacle of Hajj, a day of mercy, forgiveness, supplication and total submission to Almighty Allah.

“This blessed day reminds us of the timeless values of humility, sacrifice, patience and unwavering faith. It is a moment for deep reflection, sincere repentance and renewed commitment to righteousness and service to humanity.

“History teaches us valuable lessons, and when we fail to learn from them, we risk repeating the same hardships. But when we reflect on yesterday with wisdom, we are better prepared to build a stronger and more rewarding tomorrow,” the chairman stated.

He also expressed appreciation to the commission’s stakeholders, partners and pilgrims, and assured that NAHCON remains “determined to justify the confidence reposed in us”.

“I also wish to acknowledge the critical support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose determined leadership and support are responsible for the modest successes recorded in the 2026 Hajj airlift and management.

“Similarly, we extend deep appreciation to Vice President Kashim Shettima for providing direction and ensuring the effective implementation of relevant policies. Nigerian pilgrims remain deeply grateful for the continued support from the Presidency.

“We equally appreciate the management and staff of NAHCON, whose selfless service transformed challenges into coordination, pressure into performance and duty into devotion throughout the Hajj exercise,” Yusuf stated.

He, however, assured the pilgrims that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee a safe and seamless return to Nigeria.

“As we observe the Day of Arafat, may Allah accept our prayers, forgive our shortcomings and guide us to choose sacrifice over selfishness, unity over division and wisdom over frustration.

“May Allah grant all pilgrims a rewarding Hajj and safe return to their families and communities.” (TRIBUNE)