The Nigerian pilgrims embarking on the Hajj journey are being reminded of the need to respect their host country, Saudi Arabia, and its laws. As guests in a foreign land and guests of Ar Rahman, pilgrims must remain accommodative of cultural differences and abide by policies designed to guarantee their well-being. With pilgrims from over 70 nations converging on Saudi Arabia for Hajj, the Kingdom has implemented laws to ensure safety, comfort, and accessibility of places of worship.
The Head of Pilgrims Education and Orientation at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Fatima Sanda Usara, emphasized that obedience to authority is part of worship. She noted that as visitors, pilgrims must know their boundaries and remain within them. This includes respecting Saudi authorities assigned to maintain law and order and adhering to regulations designed to guarantee the well-being of all pilgrims present.
One of the key regulations often violated by pilgrims is the prohibition against sitting or reclining in prayer spaces, pavements, or designated tracks in and around the Haram. This regulation is in place for crowd control, heat control measures, environmental sanitation, and free movement of people and vehicles. Unfortunately, many pilgrims, including Nigerians, are often found loitering around the Haram area, which can endanger not only themselves but also other pilgrims.
Violating regulations can result in consequences, including fines deducted from pilgrims' deposits. These fines can affect all Nigerian pilgrims, emphasizing the importance of being aware of and adhering to the rules. Pilgrims are encouraged to learn the rules and keep to them to ensure a safe and respectful experience for themselves and others.
The importance of cleanliness is also being emphasized, as pilgrims are reminded that it is part of faith. Leaving trash and empty containers on the ground can have serious consequences, including environmental and health issues. Pilgrims are encouraged to return to their rooms to eat and wait for the next prayer with dignity, rather than sitting on the roads.
The new column, debuting in the Blueprint Newspaper, aims to provide Nigerian pilgrims with beneficial knowledge and education on Hajj guidelines, new Saudi policies, and general rulings on Hajj manasik. The column seeks to serve as a source of pilgrims' education and enlightenment, particularly for those traveling for Hajj soon or in the future.
As the Hajj journey approaches, pilgrims are urged to be mindful of their actions and their impact on others. By respecting the host country, its laws, and its people, pilgrims can ensure a successful and rewarding experience. The NAHCON and other stakeholders are working to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims are well-prepared and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the Hajj with dignity and respect.
Key points
- Nigerian pilgrims are advised to respect Saudi laws and guidelines during Hajj.
- Obedience to authority is part of worship, and pilgrims must abide by policies designed to guarantee their well-being.
- Violating regulations can result in consequences, including fines deducted from pilgrims' deposits.
