By Sarah NEGEDU
Following the conclusion of Ramadan, the Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has resumed preparations for the 2025 Hajj with an orientation exercise scheduled for this weekend.
Director of the Board, Mallam Kadiri Edah, who disclosed this in Abuja, emphasized that the exercise is a crucial part of ensuring that intending pilgrims are adequately prepared for the spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia.
“As part of our commitment to a smooth and successful Hajj operation, we have lined up activities to educate and guide pilgrims through the process. The orientation will provide them with essential knowledge about Hajj rites, the new system of grouping, transportation arrangements, and the NUSUk policy,” Edah said.
According to him, the orientation will take place at the Permanent Hajj Transit Camp, Basan Jiwa, near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Saturday and Sunday. Islamic scholars and other relevant stakeholders have been mobilized to facilitate the exercise.
The Director advised intending pilgrims who have made full payments to take advantage of the sessions to familiarize themselves with the expectations and procedures involved.
“This is an opportunity for them to fully understand the religious and logistical aspects of the pilgrimage. We encourage everyone to attend and participate actively,” he urged.
Edah disclosed that key agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and official air carrier, Flynas, will be present to deliver lectures on travel documentation, security procedures, and general compliance measures for the journey.
In addition to the orientation exercise, he outlined other preparatory activities, including medical screening for intending pilgrims on April 12 and 13, followed by an inoculation exercise on April 19 and 20. The final phase of education and orientation, which includes practical demonstrations, is scheduled for April 26 and 27, just days before the commencement of airlifts to Saudi Arabia.
Edah also called on intending pilgrims who have not yet submitted their international passports and completed application forms to do so immediately, as the Board has already commenced the visa procurement process.
“Time is of the essence, and we urge all pilgrims to comply with the requirements to avoid any last-minute challenges. Every intending pilgrim must take part in all activities scheduled by the Board to ensure a hitch-free experience,” he added.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj operation and encouraged all intending pilgrims to take their preparations seriously.
