The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has convened an evaluation meeting to review the performance of its various committees and field activities in Saudi Arabia.
Presiding over the meeting in Makkah, the Director of the Board, Malam Kadiri Edah, expressed appreciation to the officials particularly the Ulamas, Board staff, and media representatives for their dedication and contributions to the success of the exercise.
He explained that the meeting was convened to reflect on the progress made and to identify areas requiring improvement.
Addressing the issue of feeding, the Director acknowledged the committee’s efforts but noted that there remained room for enhancement.
He expressed disappointment over the accommodation arrangements, citing poor documentation regarding room allocation.
According to him, “It was unacceptable that some rooms remained empty while others were overcrowded.”
He expressed optimism that the relevant committee reports would clarify the irregularities and help ensure more efficient planning in future operations.
Also Read:Â 2025 HAJJ: NAHCON Airlifts 1,310 Pilgrims from Jeddah
Malam Edah further stressed the importance of synergy among staff, encouraging them to look beyond their individual committee roles and work collaboratively to achieve the overall success of the Hajj mission.
He announced that return flights for FCT pilgrims would commence on 21 June 2025, warning sternly against the solicitation or collection of bribes to alter flight schedules.
Providing an update on the Hadaya (sacrificial animal) arrangement, the Director confirmed that the vendor delivered as agreed, and surplus funds were distributed to the pilgrims, each receiving 30 Saudi Riyals.
Also speaking at the meeting, renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Muhammad Nuru-Khalid, commended the Board’s performance, describing the 2025 exercise as “one of the most successful ever,” despite a few observed lapses.
Head of Operations, Hajiya Shade Olumo, reiterated the value of teamwork, noting that the achievements so far were the result of a collective effort. She urged staff to sustain their commitment through the return phase.
The Chairman of the Board’s Staff Union, Malam Mahmoud Zubair, also lauded the leadership for a smooth operation. He observed that the task of airlifting pilgrims back home required “extra patience,” given the eagerness of many to return. He called for sustained cooperation among staff to ensure a seamless conclusion to the Hajj exercise.
The meeting further cautioned pilgrims against using unapproved cargo handlers, stating that Cargozeal Technologies Ltd. remained the only officially recognised cargo service provider endorsed by the Board.
