A Nigerian pilgrim from Katsina State has written an open letter to the Chairman of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), expressing deep frustration over alleged poor coordination during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The pilgrim, who did not disclose his name, claimed that he and his son—who was meant to assist him throughout the journey—were separated in Madinah before proceeding to Makkah.
According to the letter, while both had travelled together up to Madinah, NAHCO officials placed them in separate buses en route to Makkah, despite their need to remain together.
The father stated that his own bus arrived in Makkah three hours before his son’s. He had to wait in what he described as “an uncomfortable environment” before his son finally arrived.
He alleged that the delay was due to one of the pilgrims in his son’s bus not having a passport, yet was allowed onboard by NAHCO officials. As a result, the entire bus was delayed and barred from disembarking upon arrival.
In a bid to avoid further delays, the pilgrim collected his money and belongings from his son and proceeded to perform the Umrah rites alone. Tragically, he said he lost his shoes, his entire money, and other personal items during the exercise.
“This all happened because NAHCO separated me from my son, who should have been my helper,” the pilgrim lamented.
He added that the situation was not isolated, alleging that other pilgrims travelling with family members—including fathers, mothers, and spouses—were also separated in a similar manner.
The open letter raises serious concerns over the handling of logistical arrangements by NAHCO, especially in ensuring vulnerable pilgrims remain with their designated caregivers.
NAHCO has yet to issue a formal response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
