A Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab from Plateau State, has demonstrated an inspiring act of honesty and integrity by returning a sum of $5,000 (estimated at over ₦8.24 million) which she found while performing pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The money was returned to its rightful owner, a Russian national who had lost it at a sacred site in Makkah.
According to eyewitness reports and official confirmations, Zainab came across the lost funds on Tuesday, May 27, at the Masjidul Haram—Islam’s holiest mosque and a location that sees millions of Muslim worshippers during the pilgrimage season.
The selfless act was publicly acknowledged and confirmed by both the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Plateau State Pilgrims Welfare Board. Hon. Daiyabu Dauda, who serves as the Chairman of the board, commended Zainab’s exemplary behavior.
Dauda said …
“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.”
Her action has not only earned her admiration from fellow pilgrims but also from the wider Nigerian and global Muslim communities. Many view her behavior as reflective of the values of trustworthiness and righteousness encouraged during the holy pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, in a related development concerning the pilgrimage, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has revealed ongoing discussions with Saudi Arabian authorities about the potential resumption of visa processing for intending Nigerian pilgrims who are yet to travel.
A statement issued on Wednesday, May 28, by Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publications at NAHCON, noted that Nigeria is one of several countries requesting the Saudi government to reopen its visa issuance window so that more registered pilgrims can participate in the 2025 Hajj.
Usara expressed optimism regarding the outcome of the diplomatic efforts and hinted that preparations are underway should the decision favor Nigeria’s request.
She said …
“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 added that NAHCON has proactively positioned some of its operational staff to be on standby in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, ensuring that a swift response can be coordinated if the visa situation is resolved favorably.[/p>