The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has again cautioned intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj to refrain from travelling with illicit drugs, kola nuts, cigarettes and other prohibited items into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Commission said Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in religious and cultural heritage and holds strict laws against drug trafficking with death penalty awaiting violators.
NAHCON gave the warning through a statement signed by its Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Sanda Usara, on Thursday in Abuja.
“Intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj are cautioned to refrain from travelling with illicit drugs, kola nuts, cigarettes etc., into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The pilgrims are reminded that as a nation deeply rooted in religious and cultural heritage, Saudi Arabia holds strict laws against drug trafficking, penalty for which is death.
“NAHCON wishes to remind the pilgrims that the purpose of their trip to Saudi Arabia is for worship, therefore they should not be distracted by acts that would violate sanctity of their Hajj,” the statement said.
The commission reminded that Hajj is a period for spiritual reflection and prayers that should be approached with reverence and respect for the laws and customs of the host country.
“One the other hand, Commission’s management warns intending pilgrims to beware of being used as conduit for any illicit trade without their knowledge.
“Therefore, they are advised be extra vigilant over their bags at the airports to avoid implantation of prohibited items to their luggage unawares,” NAHCON urged.
It further charged pilgrims to uphold their honour and dignity and that of the country, warning that any individual caught smuggling prohibited items not only brings shame upon themselves but also tarnishes the reputation of their nation.”
The commission also appealed to State Pilgrims Boards to collaborate fully with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other related agencies in ensuring that persons planning to smuggle items prohibited in Saudi Arabia are apprehended to avoid embarrassment to the country and unnecessary delays during screening in both countries.
