Hajj 2018: NAHCON inspects pilgrim’s routes, tents

Ahead of the commencement of this year’s main Hajj rites this weekend, officials of the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) have inspected the routes and tents that would be used by Nigerian pilgrims. The inspection was to ensure that “everything that is necessary is put in place” ahead of the outing and to “familiarize national and state officials with the camps and routes,” Makkah’s NAHCON coordinator, Dr Tanko Aliyu, stated. The team was led by officials of the Establishment of Mutawifs for Pilgrims from Africa and Non-Arab Countries. In an address at Muna, Yaseer Marei, stated that Nigerian pilgrims are to occupy the tents at Camp One to twenty, except nine. At Arafat, Marei said three entries had been earmarked for Nigerian pilgrims. According to him, the first entry comprises of camp one to five while the second entry consists camp six to 18, the third entry consists of camp 18, 19 and 20, he explained. During the performance of the rites, Marei charged Nigerians to avoid indiscrimate parking of vehicles, letting pilgrims out of their tents without being told to do so, and keeping to time. He added that priority should be given to the aged, the sick and women. Meanwhile, The head of the Mutawifs, Dr Abdulrahman Bashir, has charged Hajj officials to strictly adhere to Hajj guidelines and also intensify pilgrims enlightenment on movements and camping. Bashir gave the charge during an orientation organised for the officials from Africa and Non-Arab Countries. He noted that non-compliance with regulation could could compromise the entire process and put the safety of the pilgrims at stake.