The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has promised that those who first arrived Saudi Arabia for Hajj will be the first to be airlifted back to Nigeria.
Speaking to newsmen at Muna, the Executive Chairman of the agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, promised that this arrangement will be strictly followed.
Malam Salihu noted that in the past, the outbound journey was chaotic but this time around, the airlift back home will be more organised.
“I praise the conduct of our pilgrims in the Hajj Camp, the airport and the Holy Land,” he said, adding, “They have been adhering to both our instructions and the laws of Saudi Arabia.
“That’s why this year’s operation has been successful. I am calling on them to help us by adhering to this arrangement for a successful return back to Nigeria.”
The chairman said that exceptional cases where some pilgrims would have to jump the queue will be looked into, adding that this will however be very rare.
Meanwhile, Malam Salihu complained that there were lapses in the accomodation and feeding at Muna and Arafat.
He said: “There are not enough spaces between mattresses at Muna and Arafat. Pilgrims were just cramped into tents.
“Some pilgrims also complained about the feeding. We are looking at the complaints.
“What I’m saying is not peculiar to Kaduna State. Other states also complained about their accomodations.”
According to him, the provision of accomodation at Mushair, which comprises Muna, Arafat and Muzdalifa, is the responsibility of the Mu’assasa, adding that they are usually selected by the Saudi Arabian authorities.
