Data capturing for 2016 hajj visa begins

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has commenced the co-ordination of capturing of data of intending pilgrims for the issuance of 2016 Hajj visa. So far, a total of 15,531 pilgrims have been captured.

The Commission therefore advises all intending pilgrims across the country to immediately submit their e-passports to their respective State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, and Commissions for further processing.

In another development, the Commission has received circular from the Government of Saudi Arabia prohibiting the importation of kola nuts popularly called “goro” into the Kingdom during the 2016 Hajj. The Saudi government has threatened to punish any pilgrim who smuggles goro, in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom.

“By this instruction, all Nigerian intending pilgrims are advised to adhere strictly to the Saudi rules and regulations on prohibited items,” noted NAHCON Head of Media, Alhaji Uba Mana.

According to him, State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions as well as all the licensed tour operators are to properly enlighten their pilgrims on the matter, adding that, “the Commission will not hesitate to sanction any pilgrim boards, agencies, and commissions or tour operators that violate this instruction.