By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

An independent civil society group, the Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and other stakeholders for improvements recorded during the 2025 Hajj exercise.

In a statement issued on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from Makkah and signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, IHR noted significant gains in areas such as airlift operations, feeding, transportation, and tent allocation in Mina and Arafat.

The group attributed the improved feeding arrangements to NAHCON?s decision to engage two service providers, which introduced healthy competition and led to better quality meals and enhanced services.

?This year, complaints of poor-quality meals and late food delivery were almost nonexistent,? the group said.

IHR also praised the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for curbing the activities of unauthorized persons in Mina, saying the development created more space for legitimate pilgrims and ensured better security.

The group further applauded Nigerian pilgrims for their exemplary conduct, citing incidents of lost funds and personal items being returned by pilgrims. It described them as ?true ambassadors of Nigeria.?

However, the group raised concern over the delayed establishment of Nigerian medical clinics in Makkah and inadequate health services in Madinah, calling on NAHCON to urgently review its medical services policy.

It also demanded accountability over the failure to process visas for over 2,500 intending pilgrims, which led to their exclusion from this year?s Hajj.

On the condition of private tour operator pilgrims, many of whom the group alleged were accommodated in isolated and poorly equipped tents in Mina.

?Some tents lacked mattresses. Pilgrims were seen sleeping on mats or improvised bedding in discomfort,? IHR said.

The group called for an independent investigation and appropriate sanctions against any individuals or tour companies found responsible.

With the return journey set to begin on June 13, IHR urged all relevant agencies to ensure a smooth and timely airlift back to Nigeria.

The group reiterated its commitment to holding stakeholders accountable and ensuring Nigerian pilgrims receive the quality of service they deserve.

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