A Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab from Plateau State, has been hailed for her rare display of honesty after returning $5,000 (approximately ₦8.2 million) she found at the Masjidul Haram in Makkah to a fellow pilgrim from Russia.
Her act of integrity has drawn commendation from both the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
In a statement issued by the Executive Secretary of the Plateau Pilgrims Board, Daiyabu Dauda, Hajiya Zainab was described as a shining example of moral uprightness and virtue.
“She demonstrated exceptional integrity and honesty by returning $5,000 she found in Masjidul Haram to its rightful owner. That’s a remarkable act of kindness,” Dauda said.
NAHCON also lauded the gesture, noting that it reflects the values expected of pilgrims on the holy journey.
Meanwhile, NAHCON has disclosed that discussions are ongoing with Saudi authorities to reopen visa processing for intending Nigerian pilgrims who are yet to travel.
In a statement released Wednesday by the Commission’s Assistant Director of Information, Fatima Usara, NAHCON expressed cautious optimism.
“There is optimism for a positive outcome, and when that is realised, the commission will immediately transport the registered pilgrims for the Hajj in another special arrangement,” Usara stated.
She added that selected staff members have already been placed on standby should the visa window be reopened.
