By Sarah NEGEDU
The scheduled airlift of the third batch of intending pilgrims from Nigeria’s capital Abuja, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj has suffered some delays sparking anxiety and frustration among pilgrims awaiting departure.
The development, which has left many stranded at the Hajj Camp in Bassan Jiwa, is attributed to logistical setbacks in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Madina where a shortage of hotel accommodation has stalled the intake of new arrivals.
Addressing the agitated crowd on Monday, the Public Relations Officer of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Muhammad Lawal Aliyu, urged for calm and understanding while the issue is being resolved.
“The situation is beyond our control. Until the current set of pilgrims in Madina are moved to Makkah, there is no space to accommodate new arrivals. That is why flights from Nigeria, including that of the FCT, have been temporarily put on hold,” Aliyu explained.
He further clarified that the delay is not peculiar to the FCT, rather an issue affecting all Nigerian contingents participating in this year’s Hajj exercise.
“We understand the concerns of our intending pilgrims, especially those who have been at the camp since Monday afternoon. But I want to assure them that all arrangements on our part have been concluded. The aircraft is already on ground and ready to depart as soon as clearance is given,” he said.
Some of the intending pilgrims who voiced their frustration over the uncertainty surrounding their travel said they had been waiting at the camp since 2:00 p.m. on Sunday with the expectation of being airlifted by Monday morning.
“We’ve been here since yesterday with no clear update. It’s tiring and confusing,” one of the pilgrims told our correspondent.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of all pilgrims under its care, the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board appealed for continued patience and cooperation.
“We are in constant communication with relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia. Once we get the go-ahead, the third batch will be on their way,” Aliyu assured.
