By Sarah NEGEDU
The Federal Capital Territory contingent for the 2025 Hajj, are said to be experiencing difficulties in accessing the Nusuk Cards owing to delays in their issuance by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON.
Though some pilgrims have resorted to using soft copies downloaded from the official Saudi Nusuk app, this has resulted in delays and repeated verification procedures at entry points, causing frustration and anxiety among the pilgrims.
Reports from Makkah, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, claim that many pilgrims from the FCT are yet to receive the hard copies of their Nusuk Cards—an essential digital identification required for access to the Grand Mosque (Haram) and other religious sites in Makkah and Madinah.
Addressing the challenges, the Director of the FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Malam Kadiri Edah, explained that the issuance of the Nusuk cards falls under the jurisdiction of NAHCON.
He however assured that efforts are being made to expedite the release of the cards and urged the pilgrims to remain patient as the relevant authorities work to resolve the issue.
Despite the setbacks, our correspondent gathered that pilgrims’ spiritual enthusiasm remains high, as many have continued daily visits to the grand Mosque for prayers and reflection.
The 2025 Hajj is scheduled to commence from June 4 to June 9, with key rituals including the Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha set to take place within this period.
Saudi authorities have encouraged pilgrims to fully utilize the Nusuk platform to ease their movement and participation in the rites.
Meanwhile, all intending pilgrims from the FCT have arrived Makkah in preparation for the 2025 Hajj rites following the completion of their Umrah rituals.
The FCT Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has maintained ongoing support for the pilgrims, ensuring adequate arrangements for accommodation, feeding, and general welfare.
