The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a stern warning to Nigerian pilgrims regarding the mandatory possession of NUSUK identity cards for the upcoming 2024 hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This warning comes in the wake of the recent arrest of seven Nigerian pilgrims from two states for failing to carry their NUSUK ID cards.
According to a circular dated June 6, which was directed to States Muslim Pilgrims’ and Welfare Boards (SMPWB’s) by NAHCON’s Coordinator in Makkah, Dr. Aliyu Tanko, the pilgrims were apprehended in front of their hotels for not having their NUSUK ID cards.
Dr. Tanko emphasized the importance of carrying these cards at all times, as they serve as the recognized means of identifying pilgrims and gaining access to essential areas during the Hajj pilgrimage.
Furthermore, the circular highlighted the consequences of non-compliance with the NUSUK ID card requirements, stating that individuals found without the necessary identification could face hefty fines, imprisonment, deportation, and a 10-year ban from Saudi Arabia.
In light of these strict penalties, NAHCON urged all SMPWB’s and tour operators to intensify awareness campaigns among pilgrims and ensure that they adhere strictly to the guidelines to avoid any inconvenience or disruption in their spiritual journey.
The NUSUK ID card was introduced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to effectively identify legal pilgrims participating in the hajj pilgrimage and prevent the infiltration of illegal pilgrims, which had caused issues during the previous year’s pilgrimage.
In response to the heightened scrutiny and potential consequences for non-compliance, Nigerian pilgrims are urged to prioritize obtaining and carrying their NUSUK ID cards to facilitate a smooth and uninterrupted hajj experience.
The commission has also encouraged pilgrims with smartphones to download the NUSUK app and activate digital copies of their NUSUK cards using their passport and visa numbers.
