The Executive Secretary of the Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Muhammad Awwal Aliyu, has expressed serious concern over the accommodation arrangements during a pre-Hajj (Arafat) assessment of facilities in Munna and Arafat ahead of the 2026 Hajj rites.
This was contained in a statement signed by Jibrin Usman Kodo,Public Relations Officer Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board Issued to newsmen.
According to the Executive Secretary, the accommodation standard represents a significant decline when compared to the ones provided during the 2025 Hajj exercise, to which he described, as considerably better in terms of space allocation, convenience, and beds quality.
Sheikh Muhammad Awwal Aliyu noted that, the current facilities are inadequate and fall far below the acceptable standards required to guarantee the comfort and welfare of pilgrims.
He specifically lamented on the poor quality of beds and the limited space available in the tents allocated for pilgrims in Munna and Arafat.
He then implored the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which is responsible for the selection and assignment of service providers handling accommodation for Nigerian pilgrims in these holy sites.
The Executive Secretary explained that during several engagements with NAHCON, the Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board consistently advised the Commission to maintain continuity with the previous service providers due to their satisfactory performance during the last Hajj operation.
He, however, assured intending pilgrims from Niger State that the Board would continue to strongly advocate for improved conditions and will not relent in engaging relevant authorities to ensure a safe, dignified, and comfortable Hajj experience for all pilgrims.
