By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
The Federal Republic of Nigeria has strengthened bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) over the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of Nigeria, while the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Abdulfattah Mashat, signed on behalf of Saudi Arabia, a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs noted.
He explained that Tuggar was represented at the signing ceremony by the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, adding that preparations for the 2025 Hajj are underway, building on the previous agreements.
The statement listed the key activities to include the bilateral meeting and MoU signing, fourth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition.
The platform, he said, will bring all stakeholders across sectors together to enhance the Hajj experience and elevate the quality of services offered to pilgrims.
Ambassador Tuggar said, “Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have a longstanding tradition of signing annual Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to facilitate the smooth conduct of Hajj pilgrimages for Nigerian Muslims.
“These agreements outline the responsibilities and expectations of both nations, ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims receive adequate services and support during the 2025 Hajj exercise.
“These MoUs ensure Nigerian pilgrims have a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience. They facilitate collaboration on various aspects, including accommodation, transportation, and healthcare services, thereby enhancing the overall welfare of the pilgrims”, he added.
The event was witnessed by Chairman Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, Senator Aliyu Ikara Bilbis, Hon. Jafar Shatiman Borgu, the Consul General of Nigeria in Jeddah, Amb Muazam Ibrahim Nayaya, Amb Mahmud Lele and CDA Riyadh Dr Modibo Umar.
