Nigerian pilgrim returns ₦8.2m lost cash to Russian owner in Makkah

A Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab from Plateau State, has returned a missing $5,000 (approximately ₦8.2 million) to its Russian owner after finding the money in Masjidul Haram, Makkah.

The act of honesty was confirmed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Plateau State Pilgrims Board. Chairman of the Board, Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, praised Hajiya Zainab’s integrity, calling it “a remarkable act of kindness.”

“She demonstrated exceptional integrity and honesty by returning the money she found in Masjidul Haram to its rightful owner,” Dauda said.

Meanwhile, NAHCON has revealed that discussions are ongoing with Saudi authorities over the reopening of visa processing for intending pilgrims.

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Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publications at NAHCON, stated on Wednesday that Nigeria is among several countries urging Saudi Arabia to resume visa issuance.

“There is optimism for a positive outcome, and once the visa window is reopened, the Commission will immediately commence special arrangements to transport registered pilgrims,” Usara said.

She added that NAHCON has kept staff on standby to ensure a swift response if the visa situation is resolved.