Saudi Arabian authorities have arrested seven Nigerian pilgrims in Makkah for not possessing NUSUK identity cards, also known as Hajj permits. The arrests took place on June 5 and 6 in front of their hotels. The detained pilgrims, whose names have not been released, are from two different states.
In Saudi Arabia, lacking Hajj permits, or aiding those without them, can result in severe penalties, including a fine of SR10,000, six months’ imprisonment, deportation, and a 10-year ban from the country.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has responded to this development by reiterating the importance of collecting and using the NUSUK ID cards. In a circular issued to all state pilgrims welfare boards, agencies, commissions, and licensed Hajj tour operators, NAHCON disclosed that the seven Nigerian pilgrims were arrested for not having the required ID cards.
Dr. Aliyu Tanko, NAHCON’s Makkah Coordinator, signed the circular on behalf of Chairman Malam Jalal Arabi, warning that such activities are expected to intensify as the month of Dhul Hijjah approaches. The commission urged all State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and tour operator companies to increase awareness among their pilgrims about the mandatory possession of NUSUK ID cards.
NAHCON emphasized, “All pilgrims must collect their cards on arrival in Makkah from the Mutawwif officials. It is imperative to carry these cards at all times, as they are the recognized means of identifying pilgrims and accessing key areas during Hajj.”
For those with smartphones, the commission advised downloading the NUSUK app from Playstore or iTunes stores, using their passport and visa numbers to activate and access digital copies of their NUSUK cards.
NAHCON warned about the penalties for non-compliance, stating, “Not having Hajj permits, harboring, or aiding those without it attracts SR10,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, deportation, and banning from Saudi Arabia for 10 years.”
The commission urged all State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and tour operators to ensure their pilgrims adhere strictly to these guidelines to avoid any inconvenience or disruption in their spiritual journey.
A few days earlier, NAHCON had reminded pilgrims to use NUSUK cards to avoid arrest by Saudi authorities. Chairman Jalal Arabi, through a statement by Assistant Director of Public Affairs Hajia Fatima Sanda-Usara, emphasized the card’s importance, stating, “The commission wishes to address the recent concerns and complaints regarding pilgrims being arrested or prevented from accessing the Masjidul Haram in Makkah for not being in possession of their NUSUK ID cards.”
He added, “NAHCON had at different fora with State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Hajj Tour Operators in Nigeria before the commencement of transportation of pilgrims stressed the importance of the card. The card is a crucial document required for identification and access to the masha’er during the hajj exercise. The highest religious body of Saudi Arabia has issued a fatwa in this regard making it mandatory for every pilgrim to obtain a Hajj permit for the wellbeing of all.”
