By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

As the airlift of intending pilgrims for Hajj 2025 begins, a faith-based Civil Society Organization, Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), has called on all stakeholders involved in providing services to pilgrims to operate with a sense of responsibility and fear of God.

The organization emphasized that Hajj, being one of the five pillars of Islam, is a sacred obligation, and any service rendered to pilgrims should be seen as an opportunity to earn divine rewards.

?Beyond any economic gains, any service rendered to one?s best abilities to the guests of Ar Rahman will surely earn those who offered the services Allah?s mercy,? the statement read.

IHR urged officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), as well as those from various states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to strictly adhere to their Standard Operating Procedures, particularly in the management of transit camps for pilgrims.

?We have had scenarios in the past where intending pilgrims were asked to report to camps with the promise of being airlifted within 24 hours, only to end up spending several days there. This exposes them to unnecessary hardship even before they arrive in Saudi Arabia,? the CSO noted.

The organization also emphasized the need for transparency in the distribution of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) to the pilgrims, urging officials to be honest and clear in their dealings.

Furthermore, IHR called on service providers, both in Nigeria and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to honor their terms of engagement, ensuring that pilgrims receive the services promised.

Addressing the pilgrims directly, IHR reminded them of the spiritual significance of Hajj and urged them to maintain patience and focus on the performance of their religious duties.

?Your patience will be tested not just by officials but by service providers and even fellow pilgrims. Kindly ignore distractions, remain patient, and focus on your Hajj rites,? the statement advised.

IHR also encouraged pilgrims to recognize that officials are human and may make mistakes, urging them to be understanding and supportive.

The statement was signed by the IHR National Coordinator, Ibrahim Mohammed, and dated May 8, 2025.