Nigerian pilgrim identified as Hajiya Zainab from Plateau State has returned a missing $5000 to a Russian owner in Saudi Arabia.
The money, approximately ₦8,240,000 using an exchange rate of ₦1,648 per USD, was found by the Nigerian pilgrim in Masjidul Haram in Makkah on Tuesday.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and Plateau State Pilgrims Board, led by Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, had confirmed the development.
“She demonstrated exceptional integrity and honesty by returning $5,000 she found in Masjidul Haram to its rightful owner. That’s a remarkable act of kindness,” Dauda said.
Meanwhile, NAHCON says discussions are ongoing with Saudi authorities over the reopening of visa issuance for intending pilgrims.
A statement issued on Wednesday by Fatima Sanda Usara, assistant director of information and publications, said several countries, including Nigeria, are pressing the Saudi government to lift the closure on visa processing.
Usara said the commission is optimistic that the talks will lead to a favourable outcome.
“There is optimism for a positive outcome, and when that is realised, the Commission will immediately transport the registered pilgrims for the Hajj in another special arrangement,” she said.
She explained that the commission has kept some of its staff on standby to manage the situation in case the visa window is reopened.
(Daily Trust)
