A Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab from Plateau State, has drawn widespread praise after returning $5,000 (about ₦8.24 million) she found at the Masjidul Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to its rightful Russian owner.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, and both the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, and the Plateau State Pilgrims Welfare Board confirmed the heartwarming act. Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, Executive Secretary of the state pilgrims board, commended Zainab for displaying what he described as “exceptional integrity and honesty.”
“She demonstrated remarkable character and returned $5,000 found at Masjidul Haram. Her action reflects the values of Islam — honesty, trustworthiness, and compassion,” Dauda stated. “May her conduct serve as an inspiration to all.”
Zainab’s decision has been hailed not only by Nigerian officials but also by fellow pilgrims and social media users, who celebrated her moral uprightness during a period when global attention is on the annual pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, NAHCON has confirmed ongoing discussions with Saudi authorities regarding the temporary closure of visa issuance. The commission remains optimistic that the restrictions will soon be lifted, enabling all registered pilgrims to make the journey.
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Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publications at NAHCON, issued a statement on Wednesday reaffirming the commission’s commitment to resolving the issue. “Our staff are on standby for immediate coordination once the visa window is reopened,” she said.
Additionally, FlyNas, the official airline for Nigerian pilgrims under the government quota, completed its scheduled airlift with 41,546 pilgrims transported. A final special flight on May 28 carried top officials, including NAHCON Chairman Abdullahi Usman, along with 22 pilgrims previously delayed.
Private flights, coordinated by UMZA Aviation, are expected to continue airlifting VIP pilgrims and tour groups on May 29 and 30.
Daily Trust
